Fine Gael selects Cllr David Fitzgerald and Cllr Michael Doyle and Catherine Callaghan to contest Carlow-Kilkenny constituency in General Election  

Councillors David Fitzgerald and Michael Doyle, along with Catherine Callaghan, have been selected by Fine Gael to contest the Carlow Kilkenny constituency at the next General Election.

Party members selected Catherine Callaghan and Cllrs David Fitzgerald and Michael Doyle last night in a convention in the Dolmen Hotel, in Carlow, which was chaired by Minister Patrick O’Donovan.

Fine Gael have now chosen 16 General Election candidates in ten constituencies.

Cllr David Fitzgerald said: “I am honoured to have been selected to run for Fine Gael in the Carlow Kilkenny constituency in the General election.

“Since I was first elected as a Councillor, I have worked hard for my constituents to deliver real change. From the purchase of the Smithwick’s brewery and focus on mental health during my first term as Mayor of Kilkenny to the establishment of the New Homes task force as Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council.

“I look forward to having the opportunity to represent Carlow Kilkenny and being part of the national conversation to deliver solutions across Ireland.”

Cllr Michael Doyle said, “I am deeply honoured to have been selected as a candidate for Carlow-Kilkenny, a community I’ve been part of my whole life, from my early days as a carpenter to serving our community at Gowran Abbey Nursing Home.

“I understand the challenges we face locally—whether it’s the need for robust healthcare services, support for our elderly, or viable economic opportunities for our young people.

“As we move forward, I am committed to building on the solid foundation laid by Deputy John Paul Phelan. I aim to address key issues such as affordable housing, enhanced healthcare facilities, and sustainable local development. Supporting our agricultural sector is of huge importance; sensible solutions are needed as they are the backbone of our local rural communities.

“Our community deserves a representative who is rooted in their lives and dedicated to their well-being. I pledge to be that representative, ensuring that our voices are heard, and our community thrives.”

Catherine Callaghan said, “I am excited to stand as a first-time candidate and I am grateful to the Fine Gael members who have selected me.

“As a mother of three and someone who has worn many hats in life—apprentice, mature student, full-time carer, self-employed business owner, and farmer—I bring a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the challenges our community faces.

Currently, I work as an SNA and dedicate my time as a sports coach and committee member, promoting positive mental health across Carlow Town and county.

“These roles have reinforced my belief that hard work should be fully rewarded and that our most vulnerable deserve compassionate and adequate care without having to fight for it. I am passionate about ensuring equity of opportunity across all sectors of our society.

“I aim to build on the excellent work of Deputy John Paul Phelan and former TD Pat Deering, who served our communities with dedication and integrity. I am committed to making real changes, but to do that, I need your support. Should I be elected, I promise to work hard for our community. I won’t stop when I’m tired; I’ll stop when the job is done.”