Cox and McGuinness set for FG nomination battle

FINE GAEL is expected to name a date next week for a selection convention to choose its presidential candidate in what is shaping up to be a tough battle between former PD, Pat Cox, and Ireland East MEP Mairead McGuinness.

Mr Cox yesterday confirmed he has applied to join Fine Gael through his local St Luke’s branch in Cork city ahead of an expected presidential bid.

The three-times MEP for Munster and former president of the European Parliament has also written to Fine Gael general secretary Tom Curran, requesting the approval of the party’s executive council for his membership application.