O’Malley calls time on a political dynasty

FORMER junior minister Tim O’Malley yesterday revealed he is quitting political life, ending a political dynasty dating back to the foundation of his party.

After a disastrous election for the Progressive Democrats which saw their seats chopped from eight to just two, Mr O’Malley will leave public life and focus his energies as a possible adviser to the health sector. He was among some 30 TDs who face the daunting task of clearing out their Leinster House offices this week.

Mr O’Malley’s decision brings to an end the political dynasty firmly established by party founder Des O’Malley, after his daughter Fiona O’Malley decided to leave politics following the loss of her seat in Dun Laoghaire.

“I certainly will be helping the party to regroup after the election. I won’t be standing again for public office, but I will be helping some young people to get a seat,” said the 62-year-old yesterday.

A qualified pharmacist, Mr O’Malley hopes to work as a consultant in mental health. “I hope to continue work I did in the mental health area. I helped pioneer the Government’s Vision for Change which will be in place over the next five to seven years. It will be huge. I would hope to be advising in some capacity.”

Elsewhere, defeated Independent Paudge Connolly yesterday decided to run for the Seanad after failing to reclaim his Cavan/Monaghan seat.

“I didn’t feel bitter and I didn’t feel sore, you move on. I’m not going back into health and resigned as a psychiatric nurse last Friday after doing it for 29 years.”

Elsewhere, other defeated candidates declared intentions to contest Seanad seats. Fine Gael’s spokesman on health, Liam Twomey, said:

“I don’t really see myself exiting politics. We had a good health policy (during the election) for the party, but I suppose I should have put in more effort on the ground rather than nationally. Now, I’ll be fighting another battle for the next two months.”

Veteran Fianna Fáil politician Donnie Cassidy also declared his intention to run.

“I retired from business three years ago, handing it over to my son. I’m 61 and have huge experience and a lot of contacts in politics,” said the Longford/Westmeath politician. “My family were worked to the bone to see I was elected. I’ll still work hard, if I get into the Seanad. If I’m not active in a 12- to 15-hour day, I get bored very easily,” he said.

The Greens’ Dan Boyle also declared his interest in the Seanad.