FG scoop ‘celebrity’ from under PD noses

FINE GAEL have finally got a “celebrity” candidate for its European elections ticket - and scooped the Progressive Democrats in the process.

In a major political coup for Enda Kenny’s party, Celebrity Farm presenter, broadcaster and journalist Mairéad McGuinness is to seek the nomination to run for Fine Gael in the Leinster constituency.

According to political sources last night, the Progressive Democrats also made firm approaches to the presenter of RTÉ’s Ear to the Ground, in recent weeks. Rather than being approached by Fine Gael director of elections Phil Hogan, the idea that Ms McGuinness should run for Fine Gael came from local party activists in Meath.