PROSPECTIVE FIANNA Fáil general election candidates in Dublin South will start jockeying for position shortly, following local TD, Tom Kitt’s decision not to run again.
Mr Kitt’s decision came after Taoiseach Brian Cowen sacked him on Tuesday night as Government chief whip, and he had refused an offer of a position as minister of state.
So far, the local party organisation has not commented publicly on Mr Kitt’s move, though there is some irritation that he made it without consultation.
However, Mr Kitt, who is in his mid-fifties, defended his action, saying he was entitled to make “a considered decision” about his life.
“There is no position for me on the first team. There was an offer, and I appreciate it, but no specific offer, on the second row.
“I have declined that. I think as somebody who has served in a number of ministries of state it is time to give somebody else a chance there. As Government chief whip I am conscious of the ability that we have in our ranks. We are fortunate,” he told journalists yesterday morning.
Fianna Fáil is now set to enter the next election campaign without a sitting TD in Dublin South, since doubts exist about whether Séamus Brennan will run again for the Dáil.
In his resignation letter, Mr Brennan insisted that he would return to full duties once he has overcome current illness, and pointedly referred to European political duties
Mr Kitt rejected suggestions that he had resigned in a fit of pique.
“Those people who would know me, know that there is no bitterness in Tom Kitt.
“There isn’t an ounce of bitterness in me as I speak to you. I am actually in a very happy position with myself this morning.
“I think it is quite OK for somebody like me who has given a lot to the party to make a very considered decision about my own future.”
