Fine Gael's prospects of holding a seat in Galway West in the next election have suffered a setback with the decision of Cllr Brian Walsh to withdraw as a candidate for personal reasons.
Cllr Walsh, a former mayor of Galway, was regarded as the strongest of the party's three candidates who were battling to retain the seat held by Padraic McCormack since 1989. Mr McCormack has decided to retire from Dáil politics.
Cllr Walsh, from Galway city, was selected to run with Cllrs Fidelma Healy-Eames from Oranmore and Sean Kyne from Moycullen and was favourite to retain the seat. His decision to pull out of the race leaves the party facing an uphill battle to retain the seat.
Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny said yesterday he fully understood Cllr Walsh's decision. "I spoke to Cllr Walsh last night and I fully accept his decision, on personal and family grounds, not to stand at the next general election. I'd like to thank Brian for all his work to date on Galway City Council and for his efforts in relation to forthcoming national election. Personally, and on behalf of the Fine Gael Party, I'd like to wish Brian and his new wife Fiona all the best for the future."
