Cllr Carmel Brady expcted to run in General Election bid in Cavan Monaghan
'It's up to the party but if I'm asked to run I'd be a fool to not'
Fine Gael’s Cllr Carmel Brady is expected to be added to the General Election ticket in the Cavan Monaghan Constituency when an executive meeting of the party concludes this afternoon.
This follows a party convention last night at the Hotel Kilmore in which Cllr David Maxwell and Cllr TP O’Reilly were selected to run.
Speaking to the Celt after last night’s convention, Cllr Brady said that if she is asked to run by the party, “I would be a fool to not". “There has been rumblings about me; but two people have been chosen - one from Cavan and one from Monaghan,” she continued.
“There is talk of having about 40% females on the ticket and I have been told that I’m going on the ticket. It is up to the party but I’m not going to say no; I’d be a fool to not run. I’m almost 60 years old and I’ll probably never get the opportunity again so I’m up for it. I’ll wait now until next Wednesday - I think that’s the last day to make my decision.”
Meanwhile, Cllr O’Reilly told those gathered that he was honoured to be chosen to represent Fine Gael. "Growing up in Lisgrey, Virginia, with my family running the local shop, post office, and pub, I learned first hand the strength of community and the importance of service,” he continued before adding that he was a straight-talking person who believed in keeping things “simple and effective”.
“With my background in agriculture and construction, I understand the practical needs of our area - from supporting our farmers to improving local infrastructure. I am committed to being a voice for everyone in our community, young and old alike. My focus will be on bringing positivity to our area, not just by addressing challenges but also by showcasing the incredible assets we have here.”
Cllr Maxwell said he was “grateful” for the opportunity he had been presented with. “I am grateful to have the opportunity to stand for Fine Gael in the upcoming General Election for Cavan-Monaghan. Having served as a councillor for Monaghan, I am committed to delivering the representation we deserve in Dáil Eireann.
“I believe in building stronger local infrastructure, from better roads to reliable broadband, so that our families, businesses, and schools have the resources they need to thrive. Our local industry and small businesses need a champion, and I’m dedicated to driving investment that will strengthen Cavan-Monaghan for the future.
"With your support in the campaign ahead, I am ready to keep working for progress and prosperity across our communities, ensuring that Cavan-Monaghan remains a vibrant, thriving place for generations to come.”