Fine Gael select general election candidates for Cork South-West constituency

Senator Tim Lombard and county councillor Noel O’Donovan have been selected by Fine Gael to represent the party in the Cork South-West constituency at the next general election.

The two men were selected at the party’s convention at the Parkway Hotel in Dunmanway on Wednesday night.

Fine Gael previously ran Mr Lombard, alongside former councillor Karen Coakley, in the constituency at the 2020 general election, but the party lost the seat which had been held since 2011 by Jim Daly.

Speaking after the selection convention, Mr Lombard said he was delighted to have been selected.

“With 21 years of political experience, and having served as a senator since 2016, I believe I have the experience, knowledge, and enthusiasm to represent the people of Cork South-West as their TD,” he said.

A dairy farmer based in Minane Bridge, Mr Lombard pledged to continue fighting for the farming community on nitrates derogation, VAT refunds for farmers, the fodder crisis, and ash dieback.

“I will also continue my advocacy for special education and the provision of services for adults and children with learning differences across the constituency.” Mr O’Donovan said he was honoured to have been selected to contest the election for Fine Gael and was committed to bringing a fresh perspective to address the issues facing the local community.

“As a former member of An Garda Siochana, I promise to work with families and communities across Cork South-West to address the challenges of anti-social behaviour and will prioritise law and order,” he said.

“From my experience as a councillor, I know I can represent the interests of the people of Cork South-West in Dáil Éireann and I look forward to beginning my campaign.” 

The convention brings to 28 the number of general election candidates selected by Fine Gael in 17 constituencies.