Fine Gael representatives in Waterford have been reflecting on the outcome of the recent Presidential Election, following Heather Humphreys’s unsuccessful bid for the presidency.
At the count centre in Waterford’s SETU Arena, Councillor Jim D’Arcy shared his thoughts on the result and the broader direction of the party. He said Fine Gael has “always been a centre-right party” and should continue to represent those values.
Referring to the recent national budget, Councillor D’Arcy said it offered strong support for those on social welfare but argued that it could have gone further for working people, a group he described as central to Fine Gael’s identity.
Minister John Cummins Emphasises Balanced Budget Approach
Minister John Cummins, who was unable to attend the count due to personal reasons, also reflected on the election when speaking on Déise Today.
Saying he was sorry for his former party colleague Heather Humphreys, but congratulated President Elect, Catherine Connolly.
He went onto describe Fine Gael as a “centre party” that had done its best in the most recent budget to protect jobs and support businesses, while responding to the comments made by Councillor D’Arcy in the count centre on Saturday.
Responding to concerns about the party’s direction, Minister Cummins said Fine Gael remains committed to balancing social supports with measures that strengthen the economy. He also noted that the high number of spoiled votes in the election may have stemmed from the binary nature of the ballot.
Party Support Remains Strong for Leadership
Meanwhile Councillor Niamh O’Donovan added that Fine Gael was right to stand behind its own candidate in the race, saying the party had “no obligation to support anyone else.”
When asked about Simon Harris’s leadership, Councillor O’Donovan expressed confidence in his continued role, saying she hopes the party will build on its progress and focus on the future.
For the latest Waterford News and Sport, tune into WLR News on the hour and download the WLR App for news on demand.
