This article is from page 15 of the 2006-05-16 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 15 JPG
TENSIONS ran high as the verdict was imminent. Joe Carey’s camp were huddled in one corner, while Tony Mulcahy walked to and fro, in front of the stage.
The recount added to the sweat, as Carey and Mulcahy waited and waited. Then the announcement that Mulcahy was victorious caused great disappointment in the Carey camp.
Supporters of the 30-year-old had been vocal throughout and his reference to the good old glory days, during his impassioned speech, created much reaction among his faithful.
After the outcome was announced, Carey – son of former TD Donal – was whisked away by his advisors and returned moments later to make a brief statement. He said many questions must be asked about the way the process was undertaken.
“I am very disappointed with the outcome of this convention. I, along with my supporters, have put an awful amount of work into today. Unfortunately the result was very close, with only three votes between us,” he said.
“I would really have to question a few things about today…the issue regarding a candidate withdrawing at the 11th hour. I need to reflect on that matter,” he told The Clare People .
“I believe that maybe procedures weren’t adhered to today and I feel (losing by) only three votes, there is merit in reviewing what happened here today,” he added.
He also said that, while victory eluded him on Sunday, he will continue to fly the Carey flag in politics.
“I am certainly not finished in politics. I have huge support. The people of the town of Ennis need a candidate to run in the next general election and the road doesn’t stop here for Joe Carey.
“I think the road is getting wider and I intend to travel it all the way up to Dáil Éireann.”
Earlier, Carey had told members that politics in the county was at a “crossroads” and required “new blood”, and that James Breen’s votes in Ennis must be targeted by Fine Gael.
Carey was first elected to Clare County Council in 1999, with 786 first preferences, and at the age of 23, became the youngest councillor in the county. He scooped a recordbreaking 1,939 votes and was reelected in 2004.