Dáil election candidates announced

A NUMBER of high profile Northside politicians have declared their intention to contest the next general election, due to be held early next year.

Last week Tánaiste Joan Burton confirmed at a local Labour Party Selection Convention that she’d be defending her seat in Dublin West.

“I am very proud to represent the people of Dublin West, and have always done my utmost to ensure their voice is heard at national level,

? she said.

“That work will continue over the next year.

?

The Minister for Social Protection said she’d be prioritising opportunity, jobs, schools and improved health facilities.

Another Government minister, Fine Gael’s Paschal Donohoe, has also confirmed he’ll be contesting in his Dublin Central constituency. He was selected by party members at a convention held recently in Kavanagh’s, Stoneybatter.

“The next general election presents a challenge for Fine Gael,

? he said.

“Securing a second term in Government is our aim. We have proven our ability to restore our economic stability. Now we are focused on securing that recovery for this and future generations and I want to continue to play my part in making that happen.

?

Minister Donohoe will be up against current Dublin Lord Mayor, Christy Burke, who’ll be running as an independent in the same constituency.

Cllr Burke – who has been an unsuccessful Dail candidate eight times previously in Dublin Central – will have the support of fellow independent councillor, Nial Ring.

“I was delighted to hear Christy making the announcement on the Late Late show – it was what many constituents were hoping to hear,

? he said.

“Dublin Central has a long tradition of backing their own independent minded representatives and with Christy running for the Dail they once again have an opportunity to elect a hardworking, caring and decent representative.

?