Controversial Senator Martin Conway Could Secure MEP Seat

UPDATE: Controversial Senator Martin Conway is poised to potentially secure a seat as a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) if Fine Gael candidate Seán Kelly wins the presidency. This urgent development comes as Fine Gael prepares for a crucial meeting tonight to strategize following the withdrawal of Mairéad McGuinness from the presidential race.

Senator Conway, a former Fine Gael senator, is currently listed as a replacement candidate for the Europe Ireland South constituency. Under European Parliament rules, candidates must submit a list of up to six replacements, and Conway’s name is prominently featured. His ascent follows the untimely passing of MEP John Mullins, making this situation particularly pressing for the party.

Conway’s past, however, is marred by controversy. He resigned from the parliamentary party earlier this year after being involved in multiple scandals, including an arrest on Dublin’s O’Connell Street for public intoxication and allegations of inappropriate behavior. Many in Fine Gael are wary of his potential return to prominence, with one senior party member stating, “We do not need another rogue dominating the presidential campaign.”

Adding to the urgency, Seán Kelly announced yesterday he is reconsidering his candidacy for the presidency after McGuinness’s exit. “I didn’t look for a nomination the last time, but I’m going to reconsider,” Kelly told Newstalk. His decision is critical, as the party’s strategy will significantly influence the upcoming election landscape.

While party insiders have attempted to downplay Conway’s chances, claiming “whoever is saying this is being mischievous,” experts familiar with European parliamentary rules caution that once a name is submitted, it is nearly impossible to withdraw it. A source supportive of Conway insists, “It is clear that Mr. Conway is the designated successor to Mr. Kelly.”

As the Fine Gael National Executive gathers tonight to address McGuinness’s departure, tensions are high. Despite Kelly’s claims of grassroots support, senior party sources back Heather Humphreys, citing her cabinet and parliamentary backing. “A Humphreys declaration will have a seriously chilling impact on Sinn Féin’s ambitions,” predicts one election strategist, highlighting the stakes involved.

Meanwhile, within Fianna Fáil, support for a possible candidacy from former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern is rising. A recent poll shows Ahern tied with Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald at 14%, trailing only Humphreys and Connolly. Party members are increasingly frustrated with current leader Micheál Martin‘s indecision, suggesting that hesitation could jeopardize their chances.

As the political landscape shifts rapidly, the implications of these developments will resonate throughout Ireland and beyond. With the presidential race heating up, all eyes are on Fine Gael and the decisions that will shape the future of Irish politics.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.