Taoiseach launches Aisling Dolan's election bid in Roscommon

Taoiseach Simon Harris was in Roscommon town yesterday (Tuesday) afternoon to launch the general election campaign of Fine Gael Senator Aisling Dolan.

Praising her work on health and education, Mr Harris described Senator Dolan as "the real deal," adding that he wanted her on his team and needed her in the Dáil.

Ballinasloe's Senator Dolan also ran in the Roscommon-Galway constituency at the last general election in 2020, picking up 5,466 first preferences but falling short of claiming one of the three seats.

Speaking in Roscommon, the Taoiseach said: "She has worked so hard for Roscommon-Galway over the last number of years – in the Seanad as our Spokesperson on Education, always speaking up for the west, and as a Councillor before that.

"She has delivered major infrastructure projects and I want her on my team."

He went on to remark on Roscommon-Galway's status as one of only two constituencies nationally that did not elect a Government TD in the last Dáil.

"When the ballot boxes are opened on November 30, one of the early indications will be if this constituency is going to vote in favour of Government parties and return a Fine Gael TD to the Dáil for this area," he opined.

The Taoiseach recalled his first meeting with Senator Dolan, a then-Councillor, and her decision to "take the plunge" and join the party.

He also spoke of the passion she showed for Portiuncula Hospital. "I was so happy to be back there as Taoiseach a few weeks ago to officially open the new 50-bed ward block at the hospital. Aisling Dolan helped to deliver that," he said.

He said Fine Gael had a plan to "secure the future of this country" at a "very volatile" time.

"We have a plan to address the cost of living, deliver the homes, deliver for the regions, to keep people safe, to have a fair and firm migration system, and to give every child the best start in life," said the Taoiseach.