Fianna Fáil’s election strategy in Clare is expected to remain unchanged, despite the latest blow.
Dr. John Hillery withdrew from the race for the Dáil last Friday, for personal reasons, leaving the party with the task of finding a new running mate for Deputy Timmy Dooley in the next General Election.
Calls have now been made for local members to chose the candidate for the West of the county, but it’s likely that won’t be the case.
John Hillary confirmed last Friday that he would no longer be running for his party in Clare, citing personal reasons.
Now, the National Constituencies Committee will decide who will run instead of the Spanish Point Psychiatrist in the next General Election alongside sitting TD Timmy Dooley.
There was controversy at the party’s initial selection convention in April, when the strategy mandated by the party meant that some members here did not have a vote on the night.
And now, calls have been made for local members to instead make the decision. Clare PRO Michael McTeigue doesn’t see that happening though.
Rita McInerney was defeated by Dr. John Hillery at the initial selection convention in April and in light of this latest development has said that she wants to make a bid at the Dáil.
She says she doesn’t think another selection convention is necessary and she’s confident she’s in with a strong chance to be selected.
East Clare Councillor Cathal Crowe withdrew from the race in April, as the party’s strategy would have had to change for him to be nominated alongside Deputy Dooley.
He says it’s something that remains a priority for him though.
