Michael Collins is the candidate who wants to be the Healy-Rae of West Cork

After topping the poll in the local election, Michael Collins is looking to the Dáil, writes Noel Baker

When Michael Collins topped the poll in the 2014 local elections and was elected on the first count, he was hoisted onto the shoulders of his supporters and bellowed: ‘West Cork! West Cork! West Cork!”

It’s fair to say that the Independent councillor and first-time Dáil candidate has a grá for his home place. His desire to become a TD is anchored on one main point. “I want to be a Healy-Rae for West Cork,” he says. “It’s parochial, but they have delivered.”