Tullamore hosts Fine Gael party 'think-in' ahead of Dáil's return

The Fine Gael faithful came to the Faithful County this week for a 'think-in' ahead of the return of Dáil sittings on Wednesday next.

The Tullamore Court Hotel was the venue where Taoiseach Simon Harris and his party colleagues were carrying out their contemplation, with gatherings held there yesterday and today (Thursday) of this week.

While in Tullamore, Mr Harris responded to speculation about a possible general election in November, insisting once again that the coalition would go to "full term".

Minister Heather Humphreys took a break from the think-in to open the new Killeigh Community Centre yesterday evening, while she, along with fellow Ministers Paschal Donohoe and Neale Richmond, were rolled out to answer questions from the media this morning.

In his speech at the 'think-in' on Wednesday, the Taoiseach insisted that Fine Gael was ready to defend its record in Government when the general election campaign gets underway.

"I am delighted we are here together for this important gathering ahead of the next political season and parliamentary term," he told his party colleagues.

"It may feel like longer, but it has been just five months since I became Taoiseach and party leader.

"When I stood before you in Athlone (in his first engagement as party leader), I promised to reconnect and to re-energise this party.

"And, I can tell you, I have been across the country and this party is alive and kicking, and ready for battle at the next general election, when it comes."

Offaly Fine Gael councillor, and recently-selected general election candidate, John Clendennen, described the think-in as, "a real opportunity to showcase the best of our capital town to national politicians, and particularly cabinet ministers".

Speaking in advance of the event, he said it would be "an opportunity for open and constructive discussion, particularly following the recent announcement at Cardinal Health, on the need for a greater commitment to foreign direct investment in our capital town to leverage further job creation and support for local community facilities and volunteer groups.

"As a general election candidate, I will be maximising the opportunity to showcase Tullamore town and the entire county of Offaly, and most importantly finding the time for some canvassing too, considering the general election is less than six months away," concluded Cllr Clendennen.