Mayo woman to contest European Elections for Fine Gael
Shrule's Maria Walsh MEP has been selected by Fine Gael members in Midlands-North West to represent the party at June’s European Elections. Picture: Neil Michael
Shrule's Maria Walsh MEP has been selected by Fine Gael members in Midlands-North West to represent the party at June’s European Elections.
She will run alongside well-known former jockey Nina Carberry.
The selection convention took place at Sheraton Athlone Hotel in Co Westmeath with hundreds in attendance.
Ms Walsh, who was first elected in 2019, said she delighted to have been chosen to run again.
“I am proud to stand as a progressive candidate, with a proven track record over the past five years. I hope to continue my work in progressing healthcare, rural development, the economy and equality into a second term in Brussels. In particular, I hope to deliver the first ever EU Mental Health Action Plan if re-elected - a much needed strategy given that death by suicide is the second leading cause of death for our young people in the EU,” Ms Walsh said.
“Now more than ever, we need competent and transparent politicians representing our nation on the European stage. I look forward to meeting constituents across all 15 counties between now and the election, and asking for their vote to allow me to continue my work as a strong and impactful voice for them at the EU decision-making table.
“I would like to extend a warm welcome to my running mate, Nina Carberry - a fantastic candidate whom I look forward to working with over the coming months to secure two seats for Fine Gael in the Midlands-North West.”
Fine Gael’s European Director of Elections Minister Simon Coveney, who chaired the convention, said: “Over the last five years, Maria Walsh has shown herself to be a dedicated and skilled representative of the people of Midlands North West in the European Parliament. I’m particularly proud of the work she did protecting Ireland during Brexit and the Covid pandemic.
“Politics needs new faces and new voices and I’m delighted Nina Carberry is entering the fray. Nina is a champion in sport but she’s also at the heart of her community and family and ready to work for them in Brussels. I’ve gotten to know Nina in recent weeks and I’m excited that such a dynamic and intelligent person is entering politics for Fine Gael.”
