Fine Gael is continuing its search for a second candidate to contest the key Roscommon Municipal District in this May’s local elections.
The party has been making approaches to prospective candidates in the Roscommon town area over recent months. A concerted effort was made to persuade former Roscommon footballer Seamus Hayden to sign up as a candidate, but, after giving the matter careful consideration, the well-known publican opted not to run.
Last Thursday evening at a convention held in Gleeson’s in Roscommon Fine Gael selected Gerry Coffey to run for the party. Mr. Coffey, from Granlahan, is well-known in auctioneering, farming, community and GAA circles.
Mr. Coffey, a first-time candidate, said that he intends to run a positive campaign during which he will highlight a range of rural issues. He said he has the energy, passion, honesty and sense of fairness required to be an effective county councillor.
As to Fine Gael’s ongoing search for another candidate, Mr. Coffey said that he will welcome the addition of a ‘second runner’ “in a geographically suitable area”.
At the convention, tributes were paid to outgoing councillor Michael Creaton, who is stepping away from the political arena. Cllr. Creaton was praised for his hard work ethic, modest and loyalty.
