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.

Just two years ago, the PDs signed up Junior Finance Minister Tom Parlon, after he initially offered his services to Fine Gael. The former IFA president went on to take a seat for the PDs, at the expense of Fine Gael, in the Laois-Offaly constituency.

While she would be considered a highly credible contender to take a seat in the European elections, the editor of the Farming Independent would also be regarded as a future prospect for the general elections.

Fine Gael is to run two candidates in the renamed East constituency, which has been reduced to a three seater.

At the selection convention on March 14, Ms McGuinness will be up against Slane Castle owner Lord Henry Mountcharles for the nomination to run in the northern end of the constituency. Louth Cllr Michael O’Dowd, a brother of Fine Gael TD Fergus O’Dowd is also considering seeking the nomination.

Fine Gael’s sitting MEP Avril Doyle will be the candidate in the southern end of the province.

Originally from Ardee in County Louth, Ms McGuinness comes from a Fine Gael background, and she now lives in Mentrim, Drunconrath in Co Meath.

A Fine Gael spokesman described her as one of Ireland’s leading commentators on European Affairs.

“Fine Gael are determined to have the best selection of candidates in the June election and it is encouraging that a candidate of the quality of Mairéad McGuinness is putting herself forward for convention,” the spokesman said.

During a distinguished career, she has worked on a number of television programmes, including the Late Late Show and is currently chairperson of the Consumer Liaison Panel.