Principal quits to focus on Dáil run

Eddie Cassidy, West Cork

Fine Gael’s Jim Daly, elected to Cork County Council for the first time last year, confirmed he has Dáil ambitions.

The 32-year-old revealed yesterday he plans to contest the party’s convention, possibly next year, to join sitting TD Jim O’Keeffe on the Fine Gael ticket.

“I’m contemplating putting my name forward, said Clonakilty-based Mr Daly. “With new boundary changes in Cork South West, the electorate on the eastern side of the constituency will swell by more than 4,000. Clonakilty would be considered as middle ground and an excellent base.”

The father-of-two steps down this Friday after three years at the helm of Gaelscoil Dr Uí Shúilleabháin in Skibbereen. During the past term, Mr Daly had to engage a substitute teacher for nine days each month while he conducted council business, attending full council and sub-committee meetings.

“It was impossible to perform both tasks and I decided on the career change despite the political way of life being more difficult and challenging along with its uncertainty.

“Dáil ambitions apart, being a councillor is practically a full-time job and it is becoming more challenging and time consuming.

“I believe if you want to serve the needs of the people, you have to commit yourself fully. You cannot deal with an issue such as planning over the telephone. People want to meet you face to face.”

He acknowledged the support of his family and the party after being elected. His parents, along with his brothers and sisters live throughout West Cork.