FF big guns back LGBT activist for EU elections

TWO of Fianna Fail’s most senior TDs have thrown their weight behind LGBT activist Tiernan Brady’s bid to represent the party in next year’s EU elections.

Fianna Fail deputy leader Dara Calleary and the party’s justice spokesman Jim O’Callaghan are backing Mr Brady to be the party’s candidate in the Dublin constituency.

However, Mr Brady is facing tough competition for the nomination from former Fianna Fail ministers Mary Hanafin, Barry Andrews and Conor Lenihan.

All four have been canvassing support among Dublin-based Fianna Fail members in recent weeks.

Mr O’Callagan said the former ministers were great candidates but he has decided to back Tieran.

“I think his profile and his background is very interesting and it will appeal to voters beyond traditional Fianna Fail voters,” he said.

“I think members realise he has the capacity to grow Fianna Fail’s vote in Dublin and he has been received very well,” he added.

Mr Brady was previously a Fianna Fail councillor but he is best known for his work as political director of the Yes Campaign during the Marriage Equality Referendum. He also played a key role in the Australian marriage equality election.

It is also understood Fianna Fail finance spokesman Michael McGrath’s brother Seamus is hoping to contest the Ireland South constituency in the EU elections. Seamus McGrath is a Cork County councillor and his candidacy would significantly increase the family’s standing within Fianna Fail.