A computer worker could become the first senator nominated by the youth wing of an Irish political party, it emerged today.
Dubliner John Kennedy (24) will be running in the Seanad elections on a Young Fine Gael (YFG) ticket this summer.
The UCD graduate from Goatstown has a policy platform that includes scrapping stamp duty for first-time home buyers, better public transport and the creation of an Irish 'Open University'.
He said: "I will do my best to get elected, but if I'm not successful at least I will have increased public awareness about my policy issues."
Mr Kennedy's candidacy on the National University of Ireland panel was endorsed by YFG at its recent national conference.
He is also calling for a nationwide health screening programme including screening for cervical cancer, thyroid disorders and cardiac testing for athletes.
The development of infrastructure in the BMW (Border/Midlands/West) region is also important to his campaign.
YFG was founded by former Taoiseach Dr Garret FitzGerald in 1977 and is an autonomous political organisation which runs campaigns and formulates policies which are often adopted by Fine Gael.
The youth wing recently called for a nationwide network of youth cafes as a focal point for teenage activities and laptop computers for every post-primary student.
A man died in hospital today after a road crash in which the driver was arrested for drink-driving.
The 22-year-old is the third person to die on the country's roads this weekend and the 42nd road death of the year.