Markey says Louth needs an experienced voice in Dáil Éireann

Former Fine Gael MEP Colm Markey has said Louth needs an experienced voice with a proven track record to represent the constituency in the next Dáil.

He was speaking ahead of this week’s Fine Gael Selection Convention, which is set to take place on Thursday evening in the Gateway Hotel Dundalk, when candidates will be chosen to contest the upcoming general election.

The Togher native has two decades of experience in representing people at local, national and EU levels, including roles as President of Macra, County Councillor, Cathaoirleach, Chair of the Louth Leader Partnership, and most recently as a member of the European Parliament for Midlands-North-West.

Mr Markey said, “As someone deeply rooted in Louth and with extensive experience in local politics, I am keenly aware of the challenges and opportunities facing our community. I am determined to ensure that Louth’s concerns are strongly represented in Dáil Éireann, drawing on my experience at both local and European levels, particularly in securing EU funding for this area.

“I believe that Louth, as a strategically located region, has a great future ahead. We need someone with the experience to represent both the rural and urban areas, from mid-Louth to towns like Drogheda. I want to build on the tremendous work of outgoing TD Fergus O’Dowd, whose dedication to this county over two decades has been invaluable.”

Mr Markey said that both economic stability and support for families are among his top priorities. “As a father of two young children, I fully understand the pressures families face, from commuting to balancing work and family life. It’s essential that we continue to implement policies that support families in every aspect of their lives.

"This includes strengthening our economy to ensure that all families have access to well-paying jobs and affordable childcare. As someone with the experience to deliver real results, I am ready to step up to the task.”