Sinn Féin leader in the Dáil Caoimhghín O Caoláin will be running in the general election despite suffering a weekend heart attack, the party said today.
Caomhghin Ó Caoláin. Photo: Paddy Whelan
The Cavan/Monaghan TD (53) is recovering well from surgery, and a spokesman said he is looking forward to electioneering after some rest.
The party's health spokesman suffered the heart attack at his home early on Friday morning. He was taken to Monaghan General Hospital and then transferred to St James's Hospital in Dublin, where he underwent surgery on Friday evening.
A party spokesman said Mr O Caoláin is recuperating well and would be running in the general election, expected in May or June.
"Caoimhghín is recovering well. He is looking forward to returning to work at both national and constituency level after he has taken the required time for essential rest and recuperation. He passes on his sincere appreciation to all well-wishers."
Sinn Féin also thanked hospital staff and members of the public who had contacted his home and offices.
Mr O Caoláin was first elected as a Dail TD in 1997, and Sinn Féin president Gerry Adams appointed him parliamentary leader of the party's four other TDs in June 2002.
PA