Colm Markey, a Midlands-North West MEP from the Fine Gael party, has confirmed he will not be standing in the forthcoming European elections. This decision follows a string of similar announcements from party members and represents a significant shift within the party. The Louth-based farmer, in a statement issued on Saturday, expressed pride for the work accomplished during his tenure and expressed appreciation for the party members’ support.
In highlighting the party’s election strategy, Mr. Markey expressed his conviction that Fine Gael could secure two seats in the June elections with two candidates at play. While he is stepping down from the upcoming elections, he conveyed his best wishes to the remaining hopefuls and communicated his intention to remain in politics and run in future elections.
Taking over from Mairead McGuinness as MEP in 2020 after her transition to EU Commissioner, Markey previously expressed intentions of seeking re-election this year. Other incumbent MEPs from the same constituency representing Fine Gael, such as ex-Rose of Tralee Maria Walsh and ex-jockey Nina Carberry, have confirmed their intention to compete in the election.
In the race for the constituency also are other politicians like Sinn Féin’s Michelle Gildernew, a Fermanagh-South Tyrone MP, as well as sitting MEP Chris MacManus. Independent Luke “Ming” Flanagan stands as another incumbent MEP for the constituency.
The process of selection for the Fine Gael Midlands-North West constituency is scheduled to commence in Athlone on Sunday, with the party’s likely upcoming leader, Simon Harris, expected to address the members.