Fine Gael pins its hopes on ‘Killarney’s Obama’

Dermot Healy, who is contesting the local elections for Fine Gael, has been described as “Killarney’s Obama” by Kerry TD Brendan Griffin.

He was speaking at the launch of the campaign in Killarney on Sunday night where a good-sized crowd turned out to wish the local businessman well.

Fine Gael Killarney local election candidate Dermot Healy with supporters at the launch of his campaign in Tigh Mary Donal’s on Sunday night. Included are Tadgh O’Sullivan FG branch chairman, Seán Kelly, MEP, Cathal Walshe, Jimmy Deenihan and Deputy Brendan Griffin.
Pictures: Eamonn Keogh

Deputy Griffin, who himself is opting out of active politics after the current Dáil term ends, said Mr Healy has boundless energy and a real can-do attitude and, in that respect, he reminds him of the former American president.

He said when Dermot Healy emerged as a candidate for Fine Gael in Killarney it was greeted with the same sense of excitement as when David Clifford stepped up to the Kerry senior side.

Dermot Healy with Aidan Moynihan (left) and Diarmuid Cronin at the launch

Others in attendance included former TDs Jimmy Deenihan and Tom Sheahan, MEP Seán Kelly, former councillor Cathal Walshe and newly elected Killarney FG branch chairman Tadhg O’Sullivan.

Mr Healy, who has been in the car sales business in Killarney for over 30 years and also has a number of property interests in the town, told the gathering that he was passionate about supporting community groups and local fundraisers and he will work hard to enhance the retail experience offered in Killarney.

Fine Gael has not had a councillor in Killarney since John Sheahan lost his seat in 2019.

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