Fine Gael faithful in Co Wexford were looking to the future yesterday as news emerged of Independent TD Dr Liam Twomey's anticipated joining of the party, writes Aisling Donnelly in Wexford.
Local TD Mr Paul Kehoe confirmed that negotiations had taken place with the Rosslare-based general practitioner. They are understood to have directly involved Mr Kehoe and senior party representatives and to have been ongoing since early August.
"The negotiations will continue tonight and have yet to be finalised. There will be a press conference tomorrow," said Mr Kehoe.
Other senior Fine Gael members in the county were optimistic. The chairman of the Wexford constituency executive and former director of local elections, Mr Martin Lawlor, said it boded well for the future.
"If Dr Twomey is to apply for membership of Fine Gael, I would be delighted and thrilled. His joining would be a strong indication that Fine Gael is not dead and buried as some people suggest, but that the party is looking to the future."
Mr Lawlor added that Dr Twomey was a serious and credible deputy who was elected at his first attempt. "He has made a fantastic contribution at constituency and national level and if his joining is to happen, it will bode very well for Fine Gael getting three Dáil seats in Co Wexford at the next election," he said.
Fianna Fáil Minister of State Mr John Browne said: "I am not surprised at all that Deputy Twomey could be joining Fine Gael. I think he would be going to his natural home. While I am not surprised, however, I know from travelling around the county that people are flabbergasted by the development."