Fine Gael’s Catherine launches her general election campaign
Catherine Callaghan is joined by Jennifer Carroll MacNeill TD (Minister of State for European Affairs & Defence), Phil Hogan former Fine Gael politician and European Commissioner, her us bad Dean and daughters Pippa and Lizzy during her general election campaign launch in the Woodford Dolmen Hotel in Carlow. Photo: michaelorourkephotography.ie
IT WAS a case of standing room only at the official campaign launch of Fine Gael’s Catherine Callaghan, ahead of the upcoming general election. The gathering took place recently in Carlow’s Woodford Dolmen Hotel.
Prior to the launch, Catherine and minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill met a group of parents, highlighting inadequacies in disability services for their children locally. Catherine told The Nationalist the minister was left in “no doubt about the dire state of services in Carlow”.
Both then met Louise Moran, director of Autism Heroes, to examine ways in which the government can help to support children with autism by providing better early intervention services and in particular how mainstream classrooms can be provided with additional resources to support students.
The evening then turned to the more immediate future, as Catherine’s official campaign launch got underway. Chaired by cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council cllr Fergal Browne, speakers included former EU commissioner Phil Hogan, outgoing TD John Paul Phelan and minister Carroll MacNeill, before Catherine herself addressed the crowd.
Phil Hogan described Catherine as a “really strong” candidate and urged those gathered to get behind her to ensure Carlow has strong representation in the next Dáil. John Paul Phelan said his party colleague “lit up the room with her energy and enthusiasm”. Minister Carroll MacNeill described Catherine as “an astute, empathetic character”, who is deeply connected to her community.
Catherine outlined her priorities for Carlow-Kilkenny, reflecting on her experience as a former member of the defence forces, farmer, SNA, carer, mother and mental health advocate. She reminded those present that every vote counts and urged the audience to support her bid for the 34th Dáil. She was met with a standing ovation.
