The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
Art steps up to the YFG plate
A YOUNG Castleisland man, who has been obsessed with politics since he emerged from childhood, has just been elected to the National Executive of Young Fine Gael.
Art O’Mahony, a former student of St Patrick’s Boys’ Secondary School, has been elected Young Fine Gael National Secretary and Director of Elections.
The YFG executive consists of ten people, four regional organisers, four panelists with assigned portfolios, a vice-president and a president.
All of these positions were contested and filled at the National Conference in Tipperary recently with a mandate that will terminate in November 2019.
“By which time Fine Gael will have battled local and European elections, as well as potentially both general and presidential elections,” said Art with plans and preparations in mind.
“The executive has traditionally been a breeding ground for future politicians, from Leo Varadkar to Paschal Donohoe. The portfolio which I have been assigned is National Secretary and Director of Elections.
“As national secretary, I am vested with the role of staying in touch with members and communicating upcoming events and activities taking place within YFG.
“It also means I will oversee press engagements and I have no doubt that one particular predecessor in this role, Minister Brendan Griffin will be a valuable asset for advice.
“Garret FitzGerald established YFG in 1977 as the only autonomous, campaigning youth wing in Ireland.
“As the new director of campaigns, I am, therefore, following in the footsteps of brave young people who campaigned on taboo issues in Irish society such as decriminalising homosexuality and abolishing illegitimacy laws.
“For me, I am hoping to campaign on the current student housing crisis and reform of our education system, among other issues.
“As the panel candidate who received the highest number of votes, I now also represent YFG on Fine Gael Executive Council, along with our president and vice-president.
“This executive has several core functions, such as: selecting or approving candidates, election preparation and deciding how Fine Gael spends its budget. The twenty-two month term on this committee will be defining for both our party and our country and I hope, as Enda Kenny once said, to serve the greatest number for the greatest good during that period,” said Art in conclusion.
He’s one to watch.