Ring challenges Sinn Féin to enter government

THE outgoing Minister for Rural and Community Development, Michael Ring, has challenged Sinn Féin to enter government after the election.

The Westport-based TD, who is poised to retain his seat in Mayo, said the party 'opposed everything' during the last government and should now experience what it is like in government.

"It's time we saw what solutions they have to the problems of this country. I know from my own experience that you have to make tough decisions in government and Sinn Féin should experience politics from that perspective," he said.

On a personal level, Minister Ring said he is not in favour of Fine Gael entering into coalition with Sinn Féin.

"People have voted for change and it's time for Sinn Féin to take up the challenge," he said.

He told Midwest Radio he does not think there will be a change of leadership in Fine Gael after the election.

"It won't be on the agenda. Leo Varadkar turned the campaign around for us in the closing days of the campaign and he has my full support," he outlined.

He thanked the electorate of Mayo for returning him to office once again with a resounding first preference vote of over 14,000.

"I am very proud to serve my county for another term," he said, congratulating Sinn Féin Senator Rose Conway-Walsh on her imminent election.

Minister Ring added he is confident of Fine Gael taking the last seat in Mayo due to its 40 per cent rating, Senator Michelle Mulherin and former Mayo GAA star Alan Dillon being the contenders.