Ahern to name Seanad choices

THE Taoiseach is expected to announce his 11 nominations to the Seanad, within the next 48 hours, with the Greens and Progressive Democrats each securing two coveted seats.

With 49 of the upper house already elected, the Government will be assured of retaining majority control when Mr Ahern completes the line-up.

The Green Party’s Dan Boyle, who failed to hold a seat in Cork South Central, is favourite to appear on the Taoiseach’s list alongside colleague Wicklow-based councillor Deirdre de Burca.

Last week, a ballot of 19 Green Party councillors returned Ms de Burca as their choice candidate for a Seanad seat.

Meanwhile, an advisory team established by the Progressive Democrats leader Mary Harney will make its recommendations to the Taoiseach. Overall, the party received 19 applications.

Ex-TD Fiona O’Malley, also defeated in May, is strongly tipped for a nomination.

Outgoing senators Colm O’Gorman, John Minihan, Tom Morrissey and Michael Brennan along with party councillors Mary Mitchell-O’Connor, Walter Lacey and Cáit Keane are also in contention.

However, speculation is rife that the second seat is earmarked for Ciaran Cannon, who lost out in Galway East after a strong first preference vote.

Among the seven seats remaining, the Taoiseach is expected to reappoint Dr Maurice Hayes, Paschal Mooney John Ellis, Martin Brady, Ollie Wilkinson, Joe Callanan, Ivor Callely and Cllr Deirdre Heney.