Fine Gael in Castlebar begin search for new candidate after Enda Kenny announcement

THE way is clear for the Fine Gael organisation in Castlebar to identify a candidate to stand in the next general election.

It follows the confirmation last night by former Taoiseach Enda Kenny TD that neither he nor his daughter Aoibheann will be putting their names forward for selection.

He made the announcement at the annual general meeting of the Castlebar FG District Executive.

Glowing tributes were paid to him on his contribution to the party in Mayo since 1975.

In his speech, he clearly indicated his career in politics would be over once the current Dáil Éireann was completed. Mr. Kenny stated he did not intend to contest the next presidential election. He also cast doubts over a future career in the European Parliament.

Meanwhile, there has been strong speculation that the town of Castlebar may be left without a Fine Gael candidate in the next general election as party HQ is reported to be considering only running two Mayo candidates.