Offaly poll topper to seek Fine Gael General Election nomination

Fine Gael’s, Councillor Neil Feighery, who recently topped the poll in the Tullamore District Municipal District with 1,962 votes, has announced his candidacy for the party's nomination to run for Dail Eireann in the upcoming general election.

Elected on the first count, Cllr Feighery was not only the first councillor to be elected to Offaly County Council but also the first Fine Gael candidate in Offaly to secure a seat.

Understandably delighted with his success, having first been elected to represent Tullamore District in 2019, Cllr Feighery expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm:

“Since my successful re-election to Offaly County Council, I have been overwhelmed with encouragement from my constituents and from Fine Gael members across the county to contest the Fine Gael selection convention for the nomination in the new three-seat Offaly constituency. I have consulted with my family and supporters, and after serious consideration, I have decided to allow my name to go forward to contest the upcoming selection convention.”

The Fine Gael selection convention will take place on August 29 in Tullamore.

Cllr Feighery's extensive experience, including four years as a Parliamentary Assistant to former TD and Minister of State, Marcella Corcoran Kennedy, positions him well to secure the party’s nomination and serve effectively if elected. He would be excited to join the Fine Gael team in the Dáil if elected having worked closely with the Taoiseach, Simon Harris in Young Fine Gael, and he knows the dynamic leadership he offers.

The Fine Gael Executive Council has mandated that all constituency selection conventions are held by September 22, 2024. With a strong background and significant support, Cllr Feighery is poised to be a formidable candidate.

Highlighting the importance of robust representation for Offaly in the Dáil, Cllr Feighery has outlined his key priorities for the constituency:

1. Housing: Addressing the critical need for affordable and adequate housing solutions.

2. Cost of Living: Continued implementation of measures to reduce the financial burden on families and individuals.

3. Improved Public Services: Enhancing transportation and other essential public services to better serve the community.

4. Support for SMEs: Providing greater assistance and resources to small and medium-sized enterprises, which are vital to the local economy.

5. Agri-Food Sector: Promoting and supporting the agricultural and food industries, which are integral to Offaly's economic landscape.

6. Middle Income Earners: Ensuring fair policies and support for middle-income earners to maintain their financial stability and quality of life.

7. Unlocking Offaly's Full Potential: Working to make Offaly a better place to live by enhancing its economic opportunities, community services, and overall quality of life.

Cllr Feighery's said commitment to these priorities underscores his dedication to ensuring Offaly has a strong and effective voice in the national legislature, striving to unlock the full potential of the county and make it an even better place to live.