Willie Joe Padden to contest FG Euro seat!
EXCLUSIVE By Aiden HenryFORMER All-Star Willie Joe Padden is being groomed as a candidate in the European Elections in June. He has been approached by Fine Gael to stand in the Connaught-Ulster Constituency as a running partner for MEP Joe McCartin. Senior sources in the Fine Gael Partry told the Connaught Telegraph last night that should Willie Joe decide to let his name go forward and be accepted at convention it would be 'the biggest boost Fine Gael could receive since winning three Dail seats in Mayo in the last General election.' Padden played for the Mayo senior team for fifteen years, 1977 - 1992, during which he won two All-Star awards in 1985 and '89. Regarded as one of the great mid-fielders of all time, Willie Joe, won five senior Connaught, one under-21 and one minor title, during his distinguished playing career, as well as an intermediate title with his native Belmullet. Now a Castlebar based publican, Willie Joe, would be a household name throughout the country and would be regarded as a string candidate in any election. A Party insider said: "If Willie Joe decides to stand it will be the first time that Fine Gael will realistically stand the chance of taking two seats in the Connaught-Ulster Constituency." In 1990 he was asked to stand for Fine Gael in the General Election, but opted to concentrate his efforts on the playing field. Speaking exclusively to the Telegraph last night Willie Joe, a former Mayo man of the Year, said: "I have been approached by senior officials within Fine Gael to stand for the party in the June European Elections. "I am delighted with the offer and I an giving it very serious consideration. I will make my mind up by the end of the month." The Fine Gael Euro selection convention will be held in the Travellers Friend Hotel, Castlebar on Sunday, February 28. |
