Former PD leader joins Fine Gael

Former leader of the disbanded Progressive Democrats, Senator Ciaran Cannon, today joined Fine Gael.

The Co Galway politician became the first member of the PDs’ parliamentary party to join another political grouping.

Welcoming Mr Cannon into Fine Gael at Leinster House, leader Enda Kenny described his new recruit as a politician of “real ability and commitment”.

Some PD councillors have already joined Fine Gael since the party voted to wind up.

“Ever since Fine Gael won six of the eight Progressive Democrat seats in the 2007 election the future of that party has been in doubt,” Mr Kenny said.

“I wish Ciaran well as he embarks on this new phase of his political career and look forward to him making a very positive contribution to the party.”

Mr Cannon said joining Fine Gael was the best way to represent his constituency of East Galway.

“I have been particularly impressed with the party’s very positive and constructive approach to the current economic crisis the country is facing and note the very progressive policies announced recently on Oireachtas reform, education reform and job creation.

“I am very excited about this new start after joining the Fine Gael Party,” he said

Fine Gael’s Seanad leader Frances Fitzgerald said Mr Cannon will be a significant addition to the party’s team.

Co Galway-based Fine Gael TDs Ulick Burke and Paul Connaughton said: “Ciaran is a hard-working and well-regarded public representative who is a welcome addition to the party and we wish him well.”