A public spat erupted during the Fianna Fáil’s European elections kick-off last Friday over the party’s strategy to run three candidates in the Midlands North-West constituency. Senator Niall Blaney, one of the candidates, argued openly with Fianna Fáil frontman, Tánaiste Micheál Martin, regarding the level of party backing he was receiving.
The group’s membership had chosen Laois-Offaly TD Barry Cowen to be its representative during a selection assembly in February. However, Mr Blaney from Donegal, who came runner-up in the competition, and ex-Mayo TD Senator Lisa Chambers were additionally included on the ticket later on.
Blaney issued a statement criticising the support he received and claimed that the party fell into “panic mode” after settling on three candidates for the extensive constituency. Responding to queries about the internal disputes and Blaney’s comments, Martin brushed these off as “normal”.
Mr Martin refuted that it was a mistake to have three contenders, emphasising the large and diverse nature of the constituency. According to him, the party believes they made the right choice of picking three strong candidates who can campaign robustly for the seats.
When questioned if they felt adequately supported, Chambers affirmed, “I don’t just feel supported. I indeed am.” She iterated her campaign focus, citing recent polls indicating that she has a competitive chance of securing a seat. Blaney, in contrast, bemoaned his lack of exposure on national television and thus the perceived inequitable support among candidates.
“We require the equivalent chance as others to capitalise on the Fianna Fáil ballot and fight for an extra seat,” says Mr Blaney, highlighting the need for a powerful representative due to residing in Ireland’s weakest region, a point based on EU reports indicating a lack of infrastructure in that area. “I consider this a genuine shot to secure a seat in the border and Connacht regions, but we need the same backing in the final fortnight.”
“If the Tánaiste goes canvassing, then he should do so with all three. Likewise, if he decides to make videos with a single candidate, then he must do so for all three. I am calling for equal opportunity and support,” Mr Blaney emphasises.
When queried about his response, Mr Martin stated, “To begin with, Niall is the only individual with whom I haven’t yet canvassed, other than Lisa.” Mr Blaney interjected to clarify that his canvassing was a joint venture with two other candidates. “But that’s the practice with all candidates. European candidates are paired with local ones during canvassing,” Mr Martin added.
Further, Mr Martin stated, “We’ll discuss how the campaign will be managed post this press conference. A public conversation about a campaign’s logistics at a press conference isn’t appropriate. It’s something we need to address, but there is substantial support for the candidates from the party, which is very significant.”