Fianna Fáil adds first-timer to ticket in Cork South Central

Fianna Fáil has added a first-time candidate to its general election ticket in Cork South Central, bringing to three its slate of prospective TDs in what is now a five-seat constituency.

Bishopstown-based businesswoman Margaret Kenneally will join Tánaiste and party leader Micheál Martin and Carrigaline county councillor Seamus McGrath to contest the election, which is expected to be announced imminently.

A UCC graduate in Government and Public Policy, Ms Kenneally once interned in Mr Martin’s constituency office, and she is financial controller in her family’s tourism-based businesses, which include the Cork City Gaol Heritage Centre.

Ms Kenneally said that being an employer, she had first-hand experience of the rising costs and bureaucracy faced by businesses.

“The costs associated with running a small business are simply unsustainable for many, and we need to find solutions that allow businesses to thrive,” she said.

She also stressed her commitment to environmental issues and the importance of finding a balanced approach to environmental sustainability.

“It’s crucial to pursue sustainability in a way that benefits both people and the environment,” she said.

Mr Martin said he was delighted to welcome Ms Kenneally to the ticket.

“Margaret is an exceptionally able and outstanding person, and a strong champion of SMEs,” he said.

“As someone who runs a family business, she is acutely aware of the increased costs being incurred by the small businesses who employ thousands of people in our economy.

“Her dedication and experience will be invaluable for the area.”

Fianna Fáil has, so far, announced 67 candidates, of whom 27, or 40%, are women.

With the general election almost certainly weeks away, the party has yet to announce a running mate, or running mates, for sitting TD Pádraig O’Sullivan in Cork North Central.