This article explores the role of the Regional Independent Group in the formation of Ireland's new coalition government. It highlights the group's members, their backgrounds, and the controversies surrounding some of them, particularly Michael Lowry and Noel Grealish.
Michael Lowry , Barry Heneghan and Kevin 'Boxer' Moran of the Regional Independent Group in Dublin have played a crucial role in the formation of Ireland's new coalition government . Fianna Fáil won the most seats in the Dáil (lower house of parliament) but it wasn't enough for a majority, leading them to form another coalition with Fine Gael , who came third.
However, to secure their power, they need the support of other parties, including the Regional Independent Group and the Kerry politicians, the Healy-Rae brothers. The Regional Independent Group, as its name suggests, comprises seven independent Teachtaí Dála (TDs) - five men and two women - who primarily represent more rural areas. Many of these individuals have decades of experience in the Dáil. Among them is the controversial Michael Lowry, a seasoned politician with a history both in Fine Gael and as an independent. Lowry entered politics as a county councillor in 1979 and was elected as a Fine Gael TD in 1987. He has been an independent since 1997 and has served as a member of the Independent Regional Group since the 2020 general election. Lowry's past includes a conviction for a tax offence and failing to maintain proper accounts. More recently, a file was submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions regarding the findings of the Moriarty tribunal last year, fourteen years after the tribunal's final report. The tribunal, established in 1997, investigated financial payments made to former Irish premier Charlie Haughey and Lowry. Its 2011 report detailed an investigation into possible links between businessman Denis O'Brien and Lowry, concluding that as communications minister, Lowry helped O'Brien secure the state's second mobile phone license for his company Digifone in 1995.Upon learning that a file was sent to prosecutors, Lowry stated that all involved, including himself, have consistently maintained that there was no wrongdoing or impropriety in the award of the license. He mentioned that police contacted him for assistance last year, marking the first communication since 2011. Lowry added that on neither occasion was there any suggestion that charges were being contemplated against him. Other members of the Regional Independent Group include Noel Grealish, known for his controversial statements about immigrants. Kevin 'Boxer' Moran, who earned his nickname from a childhood incident at a football match, previously served as a minister of state. Sean Canney, a former minister of state, brings his experience as a quantity surveyor to the group. Also included are TD for the Sligo–Leitrim constituency and Barry Heneghan, the youngest member of the group, who holds an engineering degree. Gillian Toole, a former Fine Gael member, is another notable member, having previously served as a county councillor and worked as a community pharmacist. The Healy-Rae brothers, Danny and Michael, represent a political dynasty from County Kerry
Irish Politics Coalition Government Regional Independents Michael Lowry Noel Grealish Fianna Fáil Fine Gael Moriarty Tribunal
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Northern Ireland Coach Ben Heron Hosts Ireland's Biggest Men's Development EventBen Heron, a Northern Ireland based fitness coach, is hosting 'New Year, New Man', a major event aimed at helping men achieve their physical and personal best. The event, taking place on January 5th at Windsor Park, encourages men to connect, learn and grow together.
Read more »
Ice Warning Issued for Northern Ireland, Power Outages in Republic of IrelandA fresh ice warning has been issued for Northern Ireland, with icy conditions expected to create travel disruptions. Meanwhile, thousands of homes remain without power in the Republic of Ireland due to severe weather conditions.
Read more »
Derry City: Brandywell side sign Northern Ireland internationals Liam Boyce and Gavin WhyteNorthern Ireland internationals Liam Boyce and Gavin Whyte join League of Ireland side Derry City.
Read more »
Broxtowe Independents Depart Labour Amidst Naming DisputeA group of 20 councillors, including Broxtowe Borough Council leader Milan Radulovic, have left the Labour Party to form a new independent group called Broxtowe Independents. This move has sparked controversy due to the similarity in name to an existing independent group, leading to accusations of misleading representation.
Read more »
Broxtowe Independents Take Control of Borough Council After Labour Mass ResignationA new independent group has taken control of Broxtowe Borough Council following a mass resignation from the Labour party. The Broxtowe Independents will now run the council under a minority arrangement, relying on the support of opposition councillors to pass measures.
Read more »
Broxtowe Independents Take Control of Council After Labour Mass ResignationA new independent group has taken control of Broxtowe Borough Council following a shock mass resignation by Labour councillors. The Broxtowe Independents will run the council under a minority arrangement, relying on the support of opposition councillors to pass measures.
Read more »