MEP Brian Crowley set to face challenge for European seat

Fianna Fáil MEP Brian Crowley’s controversial hold on his European seat is set to come under intense scrutiny this evening when a party colleague formally challenges him for the role.

Mr Crowley will face the competition from ex-Renua candidate Jason Fitzgerald during the party’s Cork North Central constituency AGM this evening amid ongoing claims higher-profile colleagues may also be considering bidding for the role.

Despite being a long-standing MEP who has represented Ireland South for a number of years, Mr Crowley has failed to attend any European Parliament debates or votes since his last re-election in May 2014 because of illness.