Fianna Fáil's Keogh backs Daly as he drops out of Dáil race

Cllr John Keogh has dropped out of the Dáil race ahead of the Fianna Fáil Roscommon/Galway convention today, Thursday October 3.

The councillor has thrown his weight behind Dr Martin Daly, noting that he is “the best positioned” of the Fianna Fáil nominees.

The convention now stands to choose between former TD and current Senator, Eugene Murphy, who held a Dáil seat for the party from 2016 to 2020, and well-known Ballygar GP, Dr Martin Daly.

Fianna Fáil has directed that one candidate be chosen at convention.

“After careful consideration, I have decided to withdraw my name from the Fianna Fáil convention for the Roscommon-Galway Dáil constituency,” said Keogh.

“This decision was not made lightly, but it is guided by my strong commitment to the party’s strategic goals, as well as a clear understanding of the most effective path forward for regaining a seat in Dáil Éireann for Fianna Fáil in our constituency.”

Following the announcement of his decision to drop out of the race, Keogh backed party candidate Dr Daly, noting his service to his constituency as a key factor in the choice.

“I firmly believe that Dr. Daly presents the best opportunity for Fianna Fáil to reclaim a seat in Dáil Éireann. His geographical location, his extensive work as a GP servicing the health needs of the people of our constituency and his strong connections to local sporting organisations uniquely position him to represent all areas of Roscommon-Galway,” Keogh said.

He continued: “Daly’s familial connections and his national profile, as a former president of the Irish Medical Organisation, further enhance his standing as a formidable candidate. I am confident that he would make an outstanding representative for our community, and I pledge my full support to him.

“I encourage all my supporters to rally behind him as we work towards a common goal of strengthening Fianna Fáil’s presence in this constituency.”

The councillor acknowledged his fellow party members Senator Eugene Murphy, and Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice and Malachy Hand.

He said: “While I have no doubt that Senator Murphy would also make a strong candidate, the party’s electoral strategy and the geographical considerations make Dr. Daly the best positioned of all those nominated to deliver for Fianna Fáil in the next general election.

“Had the party’s strategy been to select two candidates at convention, I would have remained in the contest, but I firmly believe that the party needs to be able to unite and rally behind one candidate.

“I wish to also acknowledge Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice and Malachy Hand who were also nominated but who have withdrawn from the contest.”

Cllr Keogh extended his thanks to his supporters, adding that he looks forward to “continuing to work with all of you in the months ahead for the betterment of our community and our party regardless of who is selected.”