Louth journalist Alison Comyn to contest next general election for Fianna Fáil

Journalist Alison Comyn will contest the next general election for Fianna Fáil in Co Louth, the party has confirmed.

The Drogheda native has been added to the Fianna Fáil ticket in Louth for the next General Election, running alongside Dundalk-based Senator Erin McGreehan.

Ms Comyn, who was born in Drogheda, has worked as a print and broadcast journalist for more than 30 years. She has previously worked for RTÉ, BBC, Sky News, and UTV Ireland, alongside a stint with local newspaper the Drogheda Independent.

The former news anchor is a passionate ambassador and campaigner for her hometown and county, and said in a statement that she has gone as far as she can to affect change from a reporting point of view, adding that becoming a TD for Louth is the next natural step.

In a statement this afternoon, Fianna Fáil said Comyn was selected due to her “long-standing commitment to public service”. Comyn said her experience working as a journalist led to her decision to seek the selection.

Congratulations to @alisoncomyn who has been added to the ticket for the Louth Constituency for the next general election. She will join Senator @ErinMcGreehan on the ticket.

Alison is deeply-rooted in her community of Drogheda and South Louth. pic.twitter.com/lfAkQ0ddNW

— Fianna Fáil (@fiannafailparty) August 26, 2024

"I was born, raised and educated in Drogheda, and as a local journalist for almost 20 years, I know the issues that affect our daily lives, and I’m deeply connected to the heartbeat of our town and region," she said.

"I know the stories, struggles, and successes that have shaped our community because I live in the region and experience them myself, meaning I’m not just a candidate, but a neighbour who is invested in the future of our region".

The former broadcaster said she believed that the Drogheda area has faced many challenges over the years and wants to be part of the making the region a “thriving, vibrant community”.

“Being a lifelong resident means that people know me - not just my face off the telly or my name in the paper - but know my family, and my values. They sing with me, dance with me, walk with me, swim with me, and they trust me with their stories,” she added.

“I take great pride in our town’s heritage and its future. I believe in our community’s potential, and I’m passionate about making it a place where everyone can succeed.

Tánaiste and party leader Micheál Martin has welcomed the decision, adding that he believes Comyn is a “very accomplished candidate, who will bring a wealth of experience to the campaign”.

"In Erin and Alison we have a strong Fianna Fáil team in Louth that will work together in running a positive and energetic campaign in their communities."

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