Claims €16m hospital pledge is a ‘vote gimmick’

FEARS that a Government announcement of €16 million for a new community hospital, in Dingle, could be a ‘political gimmick to buy votes’ were voiced yesterday by a potential Fine Gael candidate in Kerry South, Seamus (Cosai) Mac Gearailt.

“As far as I’m aware, this is the third time this hospital has been announced in a few years. The previous announcement was by the Minister for Health, Mary Harney, a year ago,” he said.

“Whilst I welcome the latest announcement, I have reservations because of the upcoming general election.” Mr Mac Gearailt, a FG councillor in the Dingle area, has confirmed he will be seeking a nomination to contest the next general election for the party in Kerry South.