The two Fianna Fáil candidates ratified to contest the General Election in North Tipperary, Michael Smith and Ryan O’ Meara with Limerick party TD Niall Collins at the recent selection convention in Templemore.

Fianna Fáil leader urges support for the party's two candidates in North Tipperary

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The Táiniste and Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin has urged voters to support the party's two candidates running in the forthcoming General Election in the North Tipperary Constituency.

Mr Martin was speaking after Fianna Fáil confirmed the ratification of Cllr Ryan O’Meara and Cllr Michael Smith to the Tipperary North ticket.

Cllr Ryan O’Meara, who worked alongside outgoing TD Jackie Cahill for the last four years, holds a seat on Tipperary County Council after being elected in June 2024.

Cllr Michael Smith is a son of former Minster Michael Smith and has been a councillor for the region for over 20 years and is Cathaoirleach of the Thurles Municipal District.

Speaking on the selection Mr Martin said: “The selection of Cllr Ryan O’Meara and Cllr Michael Smith provides a very strong ticket in North Tipperary for the party.

“This is a very balanced ticket bringing a mix of fresh ideas and established experience, and I believe both Cllr O’Meara and Cllr Smith would make great additions if elected to Dáil Éireann.

Speaking on his addition to the Tipperary North ticket Cllr O’Meara said: “I am absolutely delighted to have been selected to contest the next General Election for Fianna Fáil.

“I pledge to be bring new and fresh ideas to the national table on behalf of my constituents. I am very passionate about my job as a councillor, I love helping people, and after working as a Parliamentary Assistant for the last four years, I will bring that forward with me if elected to Dáil Éireann,” he said.

Reflecting on his own selection Cllr Micheal Smith has said it is an honour to be selected by the party.

“To be given the opportunity to potentially follow in my father’s footsteps and be a solid and steady voice for my constituents at a national level, is something that really drives me on,” he said.

Smith stated: “I have been a reliable and committed councillor to my constituents for over 20 years in Tipperary County Council and I will work relentlessly for my constituents in Dáil Éireann.”

“I look forward to meeting all my constituents over the next number of weeks along my campaign trail.”

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