Simon Coveney unconcerned about electoral backlash as Fine Gael chooses European candidates

The selections for Ireland South are sitting MEP Seán Kelly and Cork businessman and entrepreneur John Mullins

Simon Coveney: 'This isn't the first time a referendum has been lost, there have been 11. It doesn't necessarily carry over into local elections, European elections, and general elections.' 

Enterprise Minister Simon Coveney does not expect the defeat of the Government in Friday's referenda to carry over into this year's local and European elections.

Mr Coveney made the comments as Fine Gael unveiled its selections for Ireland South — sitting MEP Seán Kelly and Cork businessman and entrepreneur John Mullins.

In Clonmel, Mr Coveney noted that there was "disappointment" at the results of the referenda, which were both rejected heavily.

He said: "Obviously, it's important to accept the result, this was a very clear rejection. I think we need to seriously assess what happened and fully understand why people voted the way they did.

"The issues here were particular proposals to amend the Constitution. This isn't the first time a referendum has been lost, there have been 11.

"It doesn't necessarily carry over into local elections, European elections, and general elections. 

"The electorate are sophisticated enough to make decisions on proposals and they said no."

On the choice of candidates for June's elections, Mr Coveney said: "I’m absolutely delighted that Seán and John have emerged as our candidates today and have no doubt they will make a very positive impact together. It’s vital now that they get on with the business of winning two seats for Fine Gael in Ireland South this June.

“The last five years have shown how vital Fine Gael’s MEPs have been on the European stage, protecting our national interest through Brexit and covid, while also standing up for the right thing on the global stage, such as our position on Russia’s war in Ukraine."

'Honoured'

Mr Mullins said: "I am honoured to be selected by the Fine Gael membership of Ireland South to run as a candidate for the European elections in June. I am intent on giving this campaign my full energy and I am also intent on ensuring that we hold on to our two seats in Europe."

Mr Kelly added: "The forthcoming European election is set to be critically important for Fine Gael, for Ireland, and for Europe as a whole. It is vital that we continue to position ourselves at the forefront of EU decision-making and ensure the EU delivers for Irish citizens.