Healy Rae dynasty believes Danny might spring a surprise

The surprise addition of Danny Healy Rae to the ballot paper in Kerry has the potential to the change the complexion of the race - but his chances of taking a seat seem marginal.

There is no doubt his brother, sitting TD Michael Healy Rae, will do very well and may have in excess of a quota.

With Independent TD Tom Fleming stepping down, there is no strong candidate located in Killarney and its hinterland.

Political dynasty

With Danny Healy Rae focusing his efforts on this part of the county, the family political dynasty believes he might have an outside chance of springing a surprise.

Michael Healy Rae, Jimmy Deenihan of Fine Gael and Martin Ferris of Sinn Féin are strongly tipped to take the first three seats.

When Mr Fleming dropped out, the favourites to take the last two seats were John Brassil of Fianna Fáil and Brendan Griffin of Fine Gael, ahead of Arthur Spring of the Labour Party.

At this moment, Danny Healy Rae’s inclusion in the race does not look as if it will affect that possible outcome.