Donegal South West By Election - "Donegal a test for the people".

[C. Flower]

Scandalcentral's blog today on the Donegal South West Byelection is like a cake full of juicy plums (http://scandalcentral.wordpress.com/2010/09/13/donegal-south-west-nightmare-stuff/)

Plenty here on the early stroke-pulling, the "fake"? "leaked" poll and who will be standing.

SC seems to think FF will still top the poll but struggle to win the seat.

[Lifeisagame]

So we have, I would think, agreement that No Mainstream Party should be brought in.
So will one win this seat?
Which one?
Why?
Finally, what will the turn out be?

Time for the test folks.

[morticia]

I heard an evil rumour today that FF was going to try and recruit Packie Bonner as their candidate

Please tell me this ISN'T true?? Gotta be a joke, right??

[Griska]

Isn't Pat "the Cope" Gallagher meant to be coming back to contest the seat he vacated?

What is a cope anyway?

[JMcgynty]

Isn't Pat "the Cope" Gallagher meant to be coming back to contest the seat he vacated?

What is a cope anyway?

Pat the Cope is in brussels and staying there, he said he is not going to run in the election, I doubt if Packie will take up the offer at this moment in time but you never know, he probably would win the seat but holding on to it in a general election would be a different matter

[Griska]

Pat the Cope is in brussels and staying there, he said he is not going to run in the election, I doubt if Packie will take up the offer at this moment in time but you never know, he probably would win the seat but holding on to it in a general election would be a different matter

The people of Donegal would be better with no representation than electing an ex-footballer for FF.

[JMcgynty]

The people of Donegal would be better with no representation than electing an ex-footballer for FF.

Maybe they'd be better with a terrorist from sinn fein ?

[Lá an Lúbáin]

Maybe they'd be better with a terrorist from sinn fein ?

Yawn and yawn again.

Maybe this site would be better off without your trolling.

[JMcgynty]

Yawn and yawn again.

Maybe this site would be better off without your trolling.

A really great contributation to the debate

[Lá an Lúbáin]

A really great contributation to the debate

What debate? You're trolling.

[disability student]

It's a litimus test for the people of Donegal as it's high time for them to give FF a resounding defeat in the by election.

[Lá an Lúbáin]

It's a litimus test for the people of Donegal as it's high time for them to give FF a resounding defeat in the by election.

Doherty could not have a fairer wind behind him. If he can sail through the 5hitstorm that Sir Anto's and Pravda's propagandists will attempt to boil up then I don't see why he can't make it.

[Fraxinus]

Doherty could not have a fairer wind behind him. If he can sail through the 5hitstorm that Sir Anto's and Pravda's propagandists will attempt to boil up then I don't see why he can't make it.

He's come close now on two occassions with the European and Leinster House elections. Nearly be a shame if he didn't after all the good work he did by bringing the writ forward.

[Slim Buddha]

Isn't Pat "the Cope" Gallagher meant to be coming back to contest the seat he vacated?

What is a cope anyway?

I understand that the family were involved in co-operatives in the past and the "Co-op" is pronounced in Donegal "Cope". I stand open to correction on this, of course.

[Slim Buddha]

Donegal SW is a test of the people of that constituency. I recently read figures on this site suggesting that in both Donegal constituencies, more than 1 in 4 would still vote FF: Those sort of figures really "test" me!

[TotalMayhem]

Donegal SW is a test of the people of that constituency. I recently read figures on this site suggesting that in both Donegal constituencies, more than 1 in 4 would still vote FF: Those sort of figures really "test" me!

"These people" also voted Mary Coughlan into the Dáil (she seems to be running her own little "austerity scheme", the Department of Education didn't even spend half of its 2010 budget yet).

[Slim Buddha]

"These people" also voted Mary Coughlan into the Dáil (she seems to be running her own little "austerity scheme", the Department of Education didn't even spend half of its 2010 budget yet).


...............and "Caligula" Cowen made her Tanaiste.

I wonder if the Dept. of Education is still spending a fortune renting sub-standard prefabs for the education of primary school children?

[culmore]

Clowen an fianna Failure are now giving out free cheese like Dev gave out free beef in the past to buy the votes of the poor people in the country

[Sidewinder]

Isn't Pat "the Cope" Gallagher meant to be coming back to contest the seat he vacated?

What is a cope anyway?

It's a Donegal thing. You have a few extremely common surnames - Gallagher, Harkin, Doherty, McLaughlin etc. But a lot of these families are only related in a theoretical kind of way. You might have say 5 Doherty families in an estate, but only two of them are related to one another in any meaningful way. So surnames aren't as useful as they should be in telling clans apart. So lots of families with these common surnames have an additional "nickname" so people know exactly which family tree of Dohertys someone actually belongs to.

The Cope, the Bill, the Goose, the Brick, the Hatter....the reasons for the nickname may be lost in the mists of time or fairly recent. If one offshoot branch of an existing family has taken on its own distinct character or had a family patriarch who was particularly famous for something or other the nickname could change.

This surname/nickname thing - and this is just a guess on my part - is possibly a relic of the fact that Donegal was one of the last areas where the old Gaelic chieftains held sway. So you probably had huge numbers of people simply taking the surname of their chieftain. Or maybe there was a misunderstanding when the English started trying to register everyone.

So it looks weird to outsiders but it's actually pretty useful within Donegal so all the millions of Dohertys, Gallaghers and McLaughlins can tell one another apart and know who is actually related to who.

[Captain Con O'Sullivan]

I've been reading through Pearse Doherty's report 'Awakening the West' (Nov 2008) http://www.sinnfein.ie/files/PearseDohertyReportWeb.pdf

and I have to say that this election in Donegal SW may not be just a test of what levels of support remain for 'heritage' FF but also whether the voters in Donegal can recognise one of the few young Irish politicians with a claim to have a plan and be able to represent the area properly.

I enjoyed his demolition of Martin Brady in the Senate recently where he rounded on the chauffered Fianna Failer and challenged him to look out the window of his merc at the destruction wrought by haphazard volumes of planning rezonings and permissions and I thought he was passionate but also very coherent.

Add to that his recognition of the oppportunity to turn the government over with his High Court case to force them to hold the Donegal SW and I have to say that people in Donegal would be foolish to overlook this man.

Very impressed with him and I think people in Donegal could hardly expect to find a better representative.

I'd not have considered voting for Sinn Fein before now but someone like Doherty could well sway me in that direction and he's got to be a firm candidate for leadership of Sinn Fein in the not too distant future.

[Binn Beal]

If I had a vote in Donegal, I'd vote Sinn Fein. At the moment they appear to be the only opposition.

If there are any SF supporters listening, can they tell us what support they want as this election is more than a local election and has serious national consequences.

[smiles]

I've been reading through Pearse Doherty's report 'Awakening the West' (Nov 2008) http://www.sinnfein.ie/files/PearseDohertyReportWeb.pdf

and I have to say that this election in Donegal SW may not be just a test of what levels of support remain for 'heritage' FF but also whether the voters in Donegal can recognise one of the few young Irish politicians with a claim to have a plan and be able to represent the area properly.

I enjoyed his demolition of Martin Brady in the Senate recently where he rounded on the chauffered Fianna Failer and challenged him to look out the window of his merc at the destruction wrought by haphazard volumes of planning rezonings and permissions and I thought he was passionate but also very coherent.

Add to that his recognition of the oppportunity to turn the government over with his High Court case to force them to hold the Donegal SW and I have to say that people in Donegal would be foolish to overlook this man.

Very impressed with him and I think people in Donegal could hardly expect to find a better representative.

I'd not have considered voting for Sinn Fein before now but someone like Doherty could well sway me in that direction and he's got to be a firm candidate for leadership of Sinn Fein in the not too distant future.

+1 :)

There probably are some around me that will, through ignorance, still vote FF as their forefathers did. Others were totally dejected and felt that it really didn't matter who was in the Dail as Donegal and the needs of its people will still be ignored but alas, like a breath of fresh air, hope arrives in the form of young Mr Doherty who has opened a few eyes to what proper representation in the Dail could actually do for Donegal.

I wouldn't underestimate the people of Donegal. Which county voted No to Lisbon?

"A fierce unrest seethes at the core, of all existing things:, it was the eager wish to soar, that gave the gods their wings." Don Marquis

[Captain Con O'Sullivan]

It would be a good day's work for Donegal to give the establishment a resounding kick up the backside and do themselves a favour as well by electing Doherty.

[C. Flower]

Donegal South West Ógra
Just filled our nomination for Senator Brian Ó' Domhnaill to represent Fianna Fáil in the upcoming by-election. A young, vibrant, energetic and hard-working Senator and the next T. D. for Donegal South-West! Ó Domhnaill Abú!...

[Lifeisagame]

It would be a good day's work for Donegal to give the establishment a resounding kick up the backside and do themselves a favour as well by electing Doherty.
Why Doherty? To other Post here , why Sinn fein?
I am very sad to see the result of my Thread proves that the people of this country have been destroyed by the Partys currently in the Dail and are going to vote for them again,
Is this the Gombeen Paddies????????????

[Lá an Lúbáin]

Why Doherty? To other Post here , why Sinn fein?
I am very sad to see the result of my Thread proves that the people of this country have been destroyed by the Partys currently in the Dail and are going to vote for them again,
Is this the Gombeen Paddies????????????

I believe Sinn Féin are now benifiting from being treated as outsiders by the establishment parties. And this time it can't be spun as their fault. I've delighted in the total discomfort of the fourth estate at the court victory. All the usuals are reverting to a variation of 'recognising the courts, now, are they?' palava. Not that that will stop them inventing stuff against Doherty before the end of the month. If truth be told, I'd like to see Doherty win the seat, not for SF's sake but to rub the noses of these propagandists right in it.

[Lifeisagame]

I believe Sinn Féin are now benifiting from being treated as outsiders by the establishment parties. And this time it can't be spun as their fault. I've delighted in the total discomfort of the fourth estate at the court victory. All the usuals are reverting to a variation of 'recognising the courts, now, are they?' palava. Not that that will stop them inventing stuff against Doherty before the end of the month. If truth be told, I'd like to see Doherty win the seat, not for SF's sake but to rub the noses of these propagandists right in it.
So we are going to elect people not based on their competence just based on "rubbing some morons nose in it "? We are a country in crisis that need people can do the job. You are just proof to the original questionion I asked. You also failed because you have Zero interest in recovery and 100% interest in power.

[Lá an Lúbáin]

So we are going to elect people not based on their competence just based on "rubbing some morons nose in it "? We are a country in crisis that need people can do the job. You are just proof to the original questionion I asked. You also failed because you have Zero interest in recovery and 100% interest in power.

Take your snotty nosed moral outrage and shove it. It's everyone against the establishment at this stage. I wouldn't hope for a unified approach to the problem from the likes of yourself.

[disability student]

SF have been pro-active in this regard as fair dues to them. I would be happy for Doherty to take the seat as part of his efforts. FG was all talk but no action.

Also SF have made good comments re Lenihan's budget over the years. There were big CUTS in the last 3 years but it DIDN'T work. Why should we trust them again after all re their 3 years of budgets which ended up in the next budget of €6bn cuts?

Their comments:They have introduced four successive budgets, as well as emergency measures in February 2009, which are all about cuts. This hasn’t worked. If cuts worked, the economy wouldn’t be in the state it is in now:

[Lifeisagame]

SF have been pro-active in this regard as fair dues to them. I would be happy for Doherty to take the seat as part of his efforts. FG was all talk but no action.

Also SF have made good comments re Lenihan's budget over the years. There were big CUTS in the last 3 years but it DIDN'T work. Why should we trust them again after all re their 3 years of budgets which ended up in the next budget of €6bn cuts?

Their comments:They have introduced four successive budgets, as well as emergency measures in February 2009, which are all about cuts. This hasn’t worked. If cuts worked, the economy wouldn’t be in the state it is in now:
I have no respect for any Party that sits in our Dail, they have failed the people of Ireland. I started this Thread to guage the Real eaction of people, SF in the Post above yours did Take your snotty nosed moral outrage and shove it. It's everyone against the establishment at this stage. I wouldn't hope for a unified approach to the problem from the likes of yourself. now if you can find constructive solutions to how we should vote in Ireland in that, please tell me.
Regarding Sinn Fein, it will be decades before people in the 26 counties would give them any power, if they can stay clean that long. I sincereley believe in what they achieved but the memories are not gone.

[Binn Beal]

Sinn Fein are the only Opposition party at the moment.

[Lá an Lúbáin]

I have no respect for any Party that sits in our Dail, they have failed the people of Ireland. I started this Thread to guage the Real eaction of people, SF in the Post above yours did Take your snotty nosed moral outrage and shove it. It's everyone against the establishment at this stage. I wouldn't hope for a unified approach to the problem from the likes of yourself. now if you can find constructive solutions to how we should vote in Ireland in that, please tell me.
Regarding Sinn Fein, it will be decades before people in the 26 counties would give them any power, if they can stay clean that long. I sincereley believe in what they achieved but the memories are not gone.

You're covering all points of the compass, and none, at the same time. And I can make head nor hole of it. I'd vote for anyone that opposes the present establishment order. The key to change is taking them on in their own backyard , and while they're working out how you got the upper hand, change the rules. But why not just trot out the old cliches that challenge nout.

[Lifeisagame]

You're covering all points of the compass, and none, at the same time. And I can make head nor hole of it. I'd vote for anyone that opposes the present establishment order. The key to change is taking them on in their own backyard , and while they're working out how you got the upper hand, change the rules. But why not just trot out the old cliches that challenge nout.
No I am not covering all points. I am stating fact, there is not a Party in this State at this moment capable of freeing us from the corruption that was allowed to happen in FFs reign, but I also believe the others knew and lived comfortable with it. I never strayed into 6 county Politics and never will engage anyone on same. You tell me it was totally clean or was/is it also the same. My reason for not engaging is simple, I have enough to deal with here and still have.

[Lá an Lúbáin]

No I am not covering all points. I am stating fact, there is not a Party in this State at this moment capable of freeing us from the corruption that was allowed to happen in FFs reign[/QUOTE]

Who said there was?

[QUOTE=Lifeisagame;88331], but I also believe the others knew and lived comfortable with it. I never strayed into 6 county Politics and never will engage anyone on same. You tell me it was totally clean or was/is it also the same. My reason for not engaging is simple, I have enough to deal with here and still have.

Why the six county reference? Is it beyond you to view Ireland, this island, as a political entity? You don't even need a prism.

[Lifeisagame]

No I am not covering all points. I am stating fact, there is not a Party in this State at this moment capable of freeing us from the corruption that was allowed to happen in FFs reign

Who said there was?



Why the six county reference? Is it beyond you to view Ireland, this island, as a political entity? You don't even need a prism.
Why the use of Irish Language when it can Never be used in International Business? An identity issue? So what.
The 6 counties is not in my business or family life no more than Blackpool is.
I have a life to survive and others to help within the 26 and will do so. Now, that is the last Post I am going to have with you referring to it so if you want to go back to Topic I will, otherwise see ya mate.

[Lá an Lúbáin]

[quote=Lá an Lúbáin;88342]
Why the use of Irish Language when it can Never be used in International Business? An identity issue? So what.
The 6 counties is not in my business or family life no more than Blackpool is.
I have a life to survive and others to help within the 26 and will do so. Now, that is the last Post I am going to have with you referring to it so if you want to go back to Topic I will, otherwise see ya mate.

Problem with the Irish language even though I have not mentioned tit?

Six Counties even though I hadn't mentioned it before you did?

Supposedly going off topic replying to your slightly off topic posts

What are/were you wittering about?

[Lifeisagame]

[quote=Lifeisagame;88358]

Problem with the Irish language even though I have not mentioned tit?

Six Counties even though I hadn't mentioned it before you did?

Supposedly going off topic replying to your slightly off topic posts

What are/were you wittering about?
Night

[Lá an Lúbáin]

[quote=Lá an Lúbáin;88365]
Night

I'd say Doc on 39% first preferences on the day, based on solidly fragile guesswork. What do you want? I'm not Keith-M.

[Slim Buddha]

Fianna Fail will select their candidate to contest the Donegal South-West bye-election tonight but regardless of who it is, he or she will simply be a representative of one of the most corrupt parties in European politics and a disgrace to this nation. One can only hope that the people of Donegal South-West will, in sufficient numbers, look at the candidates running to fill this vacancy and vote for the best candidate in the field, regardless of party affiliation.

If I had the opportunity to vote in this bye-election, that is what I would do. And from what I have seen so far, the best candidate is Pearse Doherty. I have never voted Sinn Fein in my life having found their recent background incompatible with my own beliefs but now that they engage in constitutional politics alone, any reservations I had about them have been put to one side. I also think that Doherty is a very articulate and coherent individual and, if Sinn Fein want to emphasise their break with the past, they would be doing themselves a favour elevating him to a position of greater visibility within their own organisation.

His demolition of the FF stooge in the Seanad was like a breath of fresh air and I hope he continues in this style. I look forward to hearing a lot from him in the bye-election campaign. I just hope he doesn't turn out to be a disappointment.

[Binn Beal]

+1.

[Captain Con O'Sullivan]

I'm exactly the same there as people above who would have been reluctant to vote Sinn Fein in the past but I can't now ignore the following;

Labour on the left are more of an amusing heritage party rather than any effective counterbalance to the conservative rump of Fianna Fail and Fine Gael.

Sinn Fein have been landing punches and Pearse Doherty is the one who's been doing the swinging and in fine fashion too.

Doherty is the only one with a written plan the people of Donegal can refer to- a manifesto for regeneration which outlines the issues and problems with some possible solutions as well and its a solid basis for a plan for the west in general.

If Doherty is an example of the next generation of Sinn Fein politicians and I sincerely hope he is then I think there is value in encouraging them and not painting them with Sinn Fein policies of the past.

It would be a no-brainer for me who to vote for in this election were I in Donegal.

[Lifeisagame]

I'm exactly the same there as people above who would have been reluctant to vote Sinn Fein in the past but I can't now ignore the following;

Labour on the left are more of an amusing heritage party rather than any effective counterbalance to the conservative rump of Fianna Fail and Fine Gael.

Sinn Fein have been landing punches and Pearse Doherty is the one who's been doing the swinging and in fine fashion too.

Doherty is the only one with a written plan the people of Donegal can refer to- a manifesto for regeneration which outlines the issues and problems with some possible solutions as well and its a solid basis for a plan for the west in general.

If Doherty is an example of the next generation of Sinn Fein politicians and I sincerely hope he is then I think there is value in encouraging them and not painting them with Sinn Fein policies of the past.

It would be a no-brainer for me who to vote for in this election were I in Donegal.
Personally, at this time, I believe that people should only vote for a Candidate if they really feel he/she can make a difference and I do not care what Party he/she comes from. But please do not vote for a Candidate because he/she is the best of a bad lot, you are just voting back in what we have now.

[Slim Buddha]

Personally, at this time, I believe that people should only vote for a Candidate if they really feel he/she can make a difference and I do not care what Party he/she comes from. But please do not vote for a Candidate because he/she is the best of a bad lot, you are just voting back in what we have now.

In so doing, you countenance not voting at all if you cannot vote for somebody who can "make a difference". I believe that almost 100 years ago, Irish men and women made sacrifices to enable successive generations to vote for our own representatives into our own parliament to determine our own future and for that reason I always use my vote when I am entitled to do so.

So on that basis I would use my vote to vote for the best candidate in the selection of available candidates. And in Donegal South-West, if I had a voting entitlement there, I would use it to vote for Doherty.

[Captain Con O'Sullivan]

Personally, at this time, I believe that people should only vote for a Candidate if they really feel he/she can make a difference and I do not care what Party he/she comes from. But please do not vote for a Candidate because he/she is the best of a bad lot, you are just voting back in what we have now.

It seems to me that Pearse Doherty is more than the best of a bad lot. No other candidate has gone to the trouble of publishing a document with a possible roadmap to regeneration of his constituency. That puts him well beyond the other candidates on merit alone. (Ref 'Awakening the West')

Pearse Doherty is also well known now on the national stage and has spoken the truth on the Senate floor in no uncertain terms.

He qualifies as a high profile candidate and in political terms should be the front-runner.

[Binn Beal]

There is only one candidate who truly represents your views and that is yourself. So, if you are not standing, you are faced with the choice of the one who most represents your views (or who least represents all you dislike). That's the choice in representative democracy.
It's a rough system with room for a major overhall or even replacing altogether but it's the only show in town at the moment.
Personally I feel that the process of participating in elections, campaigning, debating, ringing chat shows etc is a golden opportunity for those with political views to get their message across to the public.

[Dr. FIVE]

It seems to me that Pearse Doherty is more than the best of a bad lot. No other candidate has gone to the trouble of publishing a document with a possible roadmap to regeneration of his constituency. That puts him well beyond the other candidates on merit alone. (Ref 'Awakening the West')

Very good point and its not as if the rest didn't plenty of time to prepare.
Whatever you think of SF at least they are going for it and getting something done. They can be commended for that alone.

[Lifeisagame]

It seems to me that Pearse Doherty is more than the best of a bad lot. No other candidate has gone to the trouble of publishing a document with a possible roadmap to regeneration of his constituency. That puts him well beyond the other candidates on merit alone. (Ref 'Awakening the West')

Pearse Doherty is also well known now on the national stage and has spoken the truth on the Senate floor in no uncertain terms.

He qualifies as a high profile candidate and in political terms should be the front-runner.
Ok I accept your opinion as you have given a logical reason why he should be elected.
However, what is more interesting, nobody has offered an alternative???????

[C. Flower]

What's the state of play on candidates ? Just saw this and I think there is another selection on tonight
-Senator Brian O Domhnaill selected unopposed to contest Donegal SW by-election for Fianna Fail in Glenties

[Lifeisagame]

In so doing, you countenance not voting at all if you cannot vote for somebody who can "make a difference". I believe that almost 100 years ago, Irish men and women made sacrifices to enable successive generations to vote for our own representatives into our own parliament to determine our own future and for that reason I always use my vote when I am entitled to do so.

So on that basis I would use my vote to vote for the best candidate in the selection of available candidates. And in Donegal South-West, if I had a voting entitlement there, I would use it to vote for Doherty.
Hi Slim
What you say is the basis of this apalling Dail we have. If Doherty is good then great bring him on.
However, our Constitution does not tell us to vote for corrupt incompetents and morons. We have enough World Bad Press as it is.

[Slim Buddha]

Hi Slim
What you say is the basis of this apalling Dail we have. If Doherty is good then great bring him on.
However, our Constitution does not tell us to vote for corrupt incompetents and morons. We have enough World Bad Press as it is.

True, there is no compulsion to vote like there is in Australia. Perhaps if there was, we would demand a better calibre of candidate and tell the main parties to stop perpetuating dynasties characterised by ever-decreasing IQs of succeeding generations.

[disability student]

[QUOTE=Lifeisagame;88301]I have no respect for any Party that sits in our Dail, they have failed the people of Ireland. I started this Thread to guage the Real eaction of people, SF in the Post above yours did Take your snotty nosed moral outrage and shove it. It's everyone against the establishment at this stage. I wouldn't hope for a unified approach to the problem from the likes of yourself. now if you can find constructive solutions to how we should vote in Ireland in that, please tell me.


LIAG, i have no problems with Pearse Doherty as he is a very credible candiate. He went against the establishment re on the issue by election in the High court. NOT FG or Lab did it as it was all their cheap talk but no action by them.

They didn't want to rock FF' boat'. So they can now be seen as part of the establishment. Media was/is part of this too.

Re your snotty comments, i have never voted for SF in any election
Pearse Doherty is the only real & viable candiate that people of Donegal have at this stage. He took people's interest at heart by going to the high court. None of the mainstream parties did it. It's time to go for unconventional politics even we don't like it or not.

Btw, i take it that you don't live in the north, if so what made them provoke you to raise such a snotty comments as before.:rolleyes:

[Lifeisagame]

[QUOTE=Lifeisagame;88301]I have no respect for any Party that sits in our Dail, they have failed the people of Ireland. I started this Thread to guage the Real eaction of people, SF in the Post above yours did Take your snotty nosed moral outrage and shove it. It's everyone against the establishment at this stage. I wouldn't hope for a unified approach to the problem from the likes of yourself. now if you can find constructive solutions to how we should vote in Ireland in that, please tell me.


LIAG, i have no problems with Pearse Doherty as he is a very credible candiate. He went against the establishment re on the issue by election in the High court. NOT FG or Lab did it as it was all their cheap talk but no action by them.

They didn't want to rock FF' boat'. So they can now be seen as part of the establishment. Media was/is part of this too.

Re your snotty comments, i have never voted for SF in any election
Pearse Doherty is the only real & viable candiate that people of Donegal have at this stage. He took people's interest at heart by going to the high court. None of the mainstream parties did it. It's time to go for unconventional politics even we don't like it or not.

Btw, i take it that you don't live in the north, if so what made them provoke you to raise such a snotty comments as before.:rolleyes:
You have posed excellent questions and in doing so you knew I must answer.
First Doherty, Slim said he will be great for Donegal, so does that mean he is not a TD for the Country as a whole, assuming he wins.
Second, I have Zero interest in the six counties, never have and never will. That is my choice as a person in a Democratic country.
Third, I take exception to people who insult me by not having that interest.
Fourth, I was taught by the Catholic Clergy who beat me to the ground to speak Irish, I did not and I will not, anyway it has no place in my International working life. However, those animals taught me the the underbelly of Irish life I will never forget.
Why must Adams and Co, insist on speaking gaeilge at international times of need? It is only to rub faces in it. I prefer bridges.
I hope that clarifies my position for you.

[Lifeisagame]

[quote=disability student;88640]
You have posed excellent questions and in doing so you knew I must answer.
First Doherty, Slim said he will be great for Donegal, so does that mean he is not a TD for the Country as a whole, assuming he wins.
Second, I have Zero interest in the six counties, never have and never will. That is my choice as a person in a Democratic country.
Third, I take exception to people who insult me by not having that interest.
Fourth, I was taught by the Catholic Clergy who beat me to the ground to speak Irish, I did not and I will not, anyway it has no place in my International working life. However, those animals taught me the the underbelly of Irish life I will never forget.
Why must Adams and Co, insist on speaking gaeilge at international times of need? It is only to rub faces in it. I prefer bridges.
I hope that clarifies my position for you.
Is there a Real Good Independent in the mix there?

[RahenyFG]

Pearse Doherty will win just narrowly with transfers getting him the seat ahead of Barry O' Neill, Fine Gael. Maybe the winter conditions will mean a poor turnout.

[Captain Con O'Sullivan]

Thats the interesting bit- SF have always suffered on a lack of transfers so that side of things will be interesting this time out.

[Slim Buddha]

[quote=disability student;88640]

First Doherty, Slim said he will be great for Donegal, so does that mean he is not a TD for the Country as a whole, assuming he wins.



Not quite. I said If I had a vote in Donegal South-West, I would vote for Doherty on the basis that of the declared candidates so far, he is the best candidate in my opinion.

We do not have a list system so Doherty has to stand somewhere. He is local to Donegal so it is logical that this is the area in which he seeks a mandate.

Which is a lot different to saying "he will be great for Donegal". I believe Doherty has the capacity to grow into a national politician and to be politically effective on a national level.

[Sidewinder]

[quote=Lifeisagame;88658]
Is there a Real Good Independent in the mix there?

:confused:

You seem absolutely obsessed with finding any reason possible not to support young Doherty, despite him being quite obviously head and shoulders above the other candidates, and all because - as far as I can tell from your posts - he is in Sinn Féin and you don't like Nordies, or something. It's all a bit mad to be honest.

[Captain Con O'Sullivan]

I suspect LIAG is concerned that Sinn Fein or Doherty would not be a good business-focused candidate (am I right LIAG?).

I've mentioned the Awakening The West report which Doherty presented to the Dept of Tourism, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht in 2008 and which does carry a straightforward analysis of the west and the challenges it faces and some possible solutions including a reorganisation of the government agencies responsible for the region and the promotion of research and development in particular. I think there is also merit in focusing on the acorns approach put forward in the suggestion of encouraging co-op activities; It has always annoyed me that there seems to be this idea around the country that employment can be helicoptered in by a Minister or TD whereas I feel that sustainable employment can only be produced by the acorns approach and developing indigenous industry. Here's the document and I'd be interested to see what reaction LIAH would have to this document as a good manifesto on which to base commercial development in the region...

http://www.sinnfein.ie/files/PearseDohertyReportWeb.pdf

[Captain Con O'Sullivan]

One other thing- I had a look at expenses for Doherty in comparison to the other Senators and TDs in the region and interestingly enough Doherty addresses that subject on the front page of his personal website;

Its worth a read; http://www.pearsedoherty.ie/wordpress/

[Newsy]

All the candidates for Donegal by-election will be on Vinny Browne tonight.

[smiles]

Thankfully Patsy Brogan has decided not to run :D

Seems so far we have Barry O'Neill FG, Frank McBrearty Lab, Pearse Doherty SF, Brian O'Domhnaill FF and Thomas Pringle Ind.

I dont have a TV so will be relying on this forum for info from VB later. :)

[5intheface]

Thankfully Patsy Brogan has decided not to run :D

Seems so far we have Barry O'Neill FG, Frank McBrearty Lab, Pearse Doherty SF, Brian O'Domhnaill FF and Thomas Pringle Ind.

I dont have a TV so will be relying on this forum for info from VB later. :)

Likewise, I do have a TV but I have ITV and Channel 5 already so I've never felt the need to tune TV3 in to it.

[whydontwe]

"Donegal a test for the people"? Ya know...I think it really could be; but not in the way most people seem to think! You know...it's funny....I don't really give a flying 'fig' any more about divisions and alliances and clannish stupidities...which (let's face it) is how rich political dynasties and their pals got us here in the first place!!
My suggestion is we get rid of county boundaries alltogether...once and for all. Before anybody denounces this as 'heresy' and rubbish...ask yourselves what...exactly what, does dividing up a tiny (really) tiny country like this achieve...unless it's to achieve 166 T.Ds in the Dail...and what exactly does that achieve?
We have a state (the South)...of only 4 million people...who's only allegiances should really be to the health and welfare of the poorest and worst off in the WHOLE country. Scrambles over who, will win what, in a by-election...which is morally a joke in the first-place??...PLEASE!
Please tell me this type of Ireland is not what we want; an Ireland where we're all fooled into more political chicanery and b******t...for time after time! It does'nt matter a damn who or what wins a by-election anywhere in this country now...cop on! This country has been sold to the rich (whether here or Brussels)...and they do not(absolutely do not) care whether 'old lady Maisy' down the boreen has enough heat for the winter...or whether Cystic Fybrisis sufferers like 'little jimmy or mary'....who gasp for every breath, have a dedicated unit in a hospital to insure they live longer!!
Donegal by-election? No...I couldn't give a damn...Kerry getting yet more 'stuff' to help those in power retain their dynastic-crap? No...couldn't give a damn there either....all these politicians can go to hell!!
What I care about....and what everyone should care about is how to stop people dying because they have no connection with the rich/political class!
You want to keep the county-boundaries for G.A.A etc? Great stuff....but for God's sake...COP-ON!
As i've alluded to in other posts...the fox is guarding the hen-house...and 'we' all keep looking after the fox.....pretty soon there'll be no eggs either!!

[Ah Well]

Fingers crossed the FFer comes last in the Bye-Election, beneath all of the Independents

That's a bit of a pipe dream tho I'd think ... unfortunately ;)

GO ON DONEGAL - Time to Eradicate FF and you have the opportunity of that actually beginning to occur step by step ...

[Design for Life]

The four party candidates are on VB making their pitch. Varying degrees of parish pump really - vote for me cause I'll get a bridge fixed in the constituency and screw the national issues.

[Ah Well]

The four party candidates are on VB making their pitch. Varying degrees of parish pump really - vote for me cause I'll get a bridge fixed in the constituency and screw the national issues.

Playing the game really ... nothing will ever change politically in this place with radical effect until that whole undesirable tribal constituency thing is altered ... they're playing local ball and spouting waffle in a national sense

[Design for Life]

Yep, we need to do away with the clientelism.

[Ah Well]

Well .. anyone who missed that VB Debate, be sure to catch it tmro on the TV3 Site ... it was COMEDY GOLD :D

[Griska]

Well .. anyone who missed that VB Debate, be sure to catch it tmro on the TV3 Site ... it was COMEDY GOLD :D

T'was something alright. The provo was the only one who came out of it well. Frank Jr. was particularly cringeworthy - like a boorish mouth in a boozer.

[ang]

Well .. anyone who missed that VB Debate, be sure to catch it tmro on the TV3 Site ... it was COMEDY GOLD :D

Indeed Ah Well, I'm joining the queue tomorrow to buy 8euro bonds which will save the Nation :cool:

[Lifeisagame]

[quote=Lifeisagame;88759]

:confused:

You seem absolutely obsessed with finding any reason possible not to support young Doherty, despite him being quite obviously head and shoulders above the other candidates, and all because - as far as I can tell from your posts - he is in Sinn Féin and you don't like Nordies, or something. It's all a bit mad to be honest.
I have stated categorically that we need intelligent Candidates that can relate to the business needs of the country which turn will keep peoples living standards on a proper level. I also stated that I do not care where that person comes from. Regarding my question about other Candidates, I merely indicate that there are none and that trend will go right across the country.
Finally, this is the second time I have had to respond to direct insults from you and still refrain from equal responses. So let me make this quite clear Again, I do not refer to people from the 6 Counties as Nordies, furthermore I do Not dislike them, I have stated clearly that I have no interest in them. Nor do I have an interest with the French, Cubans, Swiss and others also, If you have a problem with that I am sorry, but it is My right to decide what interests Me.
I will not respond to anymore of your Posts on this aspect of my personal life nor will I respond to future insults, I have left that behind me.

[Lifeisagame]

Any further developments here or is it now basically a done deal?
Conor Lenihan said they had no chance anyway.

[Binn Beal]

Jim McDaid said, on Newstalk before lunch, that Doherty would win the seat for Sinn Fein.

[5intheface]

Well .. anyone who missed that VB Debate, be sure to catch it tmro on the TV3 Site ... it was COMEDY GOLD :D

Took up your offer Ah Well and you were right, McBrutal was on a personal mission to bring down Labour. 8Euro for a bond? I might take a few at that price! :D

Was going to say his performance was car crash TV but that might just been the most inappropriate remark ever. 4th sub would have been a good line but maybe just the once.

[whydontwe]

Correct...we do need intelligent candidates; however...if all that was necessary for candidature was intelligence....we might find ourselves being despotised by...well...someone like Hitler. He was a capable 'politician'...albeit an 'intelligent' madman!!
Would that our politicians and their pals had no 'interest' in the Swiss either...their bank accounts that is!!
Oh...hang-on...sorry...I forgot...we have already been despotised by the 'intelligencia' !

[culmore]

Fianna Fail had over 50% in last election, even if they loose 20% on first preferences ,they will get most of them back in nunber 2s and still take seat in about third count, its a seat they could not loose even in the present situation

[whydontwe]

Fianna Fail had over 50% in last election, even if they loose 20% on first preferences ,they will get most of them back in nunber 2s and still take seat in about third count, its a seat they could not loose even in the present situation

Heard similar on radio...several times the last couple of days....sad but probably true.

[Lifeisagame]

Heard similar on radio...several times the last couple of days....sad but probably true.
If FF get seat, fill up the passenger ships that are ready in case Kenny becomes Taoiseach. Either way we lose.

[Design for Life]

What's bad is that after seeing his performance on VB I'm starting to think that it's all his to lose rather than to win. He was really laying on the clientilism and parish pump thick with a lather - I delivered this that and the other to the constituency.

His boasting that he'd somehow prevent the IMF from "coming in" was pathetic but will probably reverberate with the people of Donegal SW. Apparently FF have always told their supporters over time not to give any preferences to the other candidates as that'd void the vote and count as spoiled.

[C. Flower]

There's a woman standing - a "community candidate. Any details?

[Lifeisagame]

There's a woman standing - a "community candidate. Any details?
There you go.

YouTube - Electoral Reform from The New Island Party

[Slim Buddha]

What's bad is that after seeing his performance on VB I'm starting to think that it's all his to lose rather than to win. He was really laying on the clientilism and parish pump thick with a lather - I delivered this that and the other to the constituency.

His boasting that he'd somehow prevent the IMF from "coming in" was pathetic but will probably reverberate with the people of Donegal SW. Apparently FF have always told their supporters over time not to give any preferences to the other candidates as that'd void the vote and count as spoiled.

Which candidate are you talking about?

[Design for Life]

Brian Ó Domhnaill, the guy "wearing the green jersey"

[Slim Buddha]

Brian Ó Domhnaill, the guy "wearing the green jersey"

I've been reading up on this guy. Dire in the extreme. Chronic gombeen. A quintessentially FF candidate. We are in the worst economic crisis in the history of the state, almost entirely of FF's making, and they offer this creature as a candidate in a bye-election.

Then again, this constituency actually voted in Mary Coughlan. And not just once. No passing it off as an accidental mistake, a quirk of the electoral system. No, enough people voted for her to elect her. Truly frightening.

I dont know, regardless of the result, how much can be drawn from this constituency since it is hardly representative of the country as a whole. Kildare North, for example, would be much more representative of the population mix.

Anyway, this will be a curious distraction for the rest of the month.

[Design for Life]

He's the archetypal FF team player - don't blame me for what them bad men up in Dublin are doing, I'll sort them out and keep them in check, better vote for me to get the local services, I'll provide for the constituency.

It should be illegal for national elected politicians to boast that they'll "deliver" for the constituency. Though of course a proper local government would help address this.

[Slim Buddha]

He's the archetypal FF team player - don't blame me for what them bad men up in Dublin are doing, I'll sort them out and keep them in check, better vote for me to get the local services, I'll provide for the constituency.

It should be illegal for national elected politicians to boast that they'll "deliver" for the constituency. Though of course a proper local government would help address this.

In other words, he is a bog-standard FF gobshyte.

Proper local government is one way to kill off the idiocy represented by O'Domhnaill and the army of cretins like him.

I favour local government with tax-raising powers.

[whydontwe]

I favour...NO GOVERNMENT....at all...whatsoever....we don't need 'em ...doesn't anybody remember "yes-minister"?? Comical as it may seem...imagine no politicians! The money we'd save...holy God; and, since they can't produce a speech (or a thought) without the help of their over-paid back-room boys/girls in the civil-service...who needs'em....seriously? Not one of them can speak intelligently for a couple of minutes...on any subject whatsoever...without reference to a piece of pre-prepared note paper....idiots all!! Give me a few Irish 'Sir Humphreys' any day...least the conversation/rhetoric would be enjoyable while their ******** us; and...in one fell swoop we'd be saving millions....why not??

[Lá an Lúbáin]

http://i705.photobucket.com/albums/ww52/artrenny/vb2nite.jpg

More thorough going analysis here

http://ancruiskeenlawnmower.wordpress.com/

[Lifeisagame]

So are we saying here thart whoever wins this By Election will have only one interest in Ireland, Donegal? Wonderful, that is a great start to a revival of our lives.

[Design for Life]

I favour local government with tax-raising powers.


If businesses want local govt. they'll get it from either of the business parties. They won't want to pay the tax though...

What citizen is willing to campaign for local govt. with a poll tax attached? Genuine democratic local government with powers and participation of the locale is needed but I've no idea how we can set out to achieve it.




So are we saying here thart whoever wins this By Election will have only one interest in Ireland, Donegal? Wonderful, that is a great start to a revival of our lives.

Judging by the FF right-back yeah, he's out to look after his local clients in Donegal along with some pathetic lie that he will "keep the IMF out".

[Design for Life]

Pat Kenny has the four party candidates on his RTE show tonight.

Clearly VB's show was much better to which he quipped.

He's attacking Sinn Fein like a good establishment puppet. The FF'er got an easy run.

[Design for Life]

Someone from the audience asked the candidates what business experience they have.

Doherty quite rightly argued that if democracy was handed over to businessmen we'd have Seanie and Fingers in absolute power.

The Fine Gaeler is a bit David Brent...

[wickedfairy]

Doherty could not have a fairer wind behind him. If he can sail through the 5hitstorm that Sir Anto's and Pravda's propagandists will attempt to boil up then I don't see why he can't make it.

well listening to him on Frontline tonight, he is head and shoulders above the rest.

[DCon]

Interestingly, Donegal has "got" over 1 million "from FF" in the past week

http://www.fiannafail.ie/news/entry/5703/

http://www.fiannafail.ie/news/entry/5730/

http://www.fiannafail.ie/news/entry/5737/

[TotalMayhem]

Interestingly, Donegal has "got" over 1 million "from FF" in the past week

http://www.fiannafail.ie/news/entry/5703/

http://www.fiannafail.ie/news/entry/5730/

http://www.fiannafail.ie/news/entry/5737/

Honi soit qui mal y pense.

[Binn Beal]

That's unashamed corruption.

[Slim Buddha]

That's unashamed corruption.

It is, isn't it? But Fianna Fail don't know this because to them, this is business as usual. It is this sort of shyte that has lost us our independence. The bond market isn't punishing us for being a corrupt people. It is punishing us for having voted corrupt people into power and having voted corrupt people into power, we allowed those corrupt people to behave in a very corrupt manner.

They are a party whose very DNA is corrupt. So don't be surprised when they practice corruption.

[electionlit]

Looking at Ó Domhnaill's (http://irishelectionliterature.wordpress.com/2010/11/13/flyer-for-brian-o-domhnaill-fianna-fail-2010-donegal-south-west-by-election/) election material you'd swear there was no crisis whatsoever going on in the country at the minute.

[Design for Life]

YouTube - Pearse Doherty - Future of the Left in Ireland


I wouldn't say no to having this guy in the Dail regardless. He might be a bit generous about how SF were right all along but his points are sound imo.

[C. Flower]

Any news?

[C. Flower]

RTE is saying 30-40% turnout so far.

With a low turnout, is FF in with a chance ?

[Dr. FIVE]

Worries me abit tbh.


FFers stay at home rather then vote for the other crowd ?

Disillusionment means only FFers were exercised to vote ?


Not many reports about, no sign of an exit poll

[Kid Ryder]

RTE is saying 30-40% turnout so far.

With a low turnout, is FF in with a chance ?

Can't decide if that's good or bad for FF. Could indicate serious demotivation among the electorate, and who can blame them? Written large, the people only have the choice of who's going to be administering the ECB/IMF medicine. That's not exactly a compelling or enthusing decision to have to make, a bit like a condemned man's last meal. But for many non-FF voters there may be better motivation to vote this time just for the satisfaction of stitching it for once to the playground bully, regardless of how they feel about the a priori limitation on the choices before them come election time, choosing between dishes on the ECB/IMF house of neoliberalism menu. The FF core vote may be staying at home, not voting in preference to adultery by secret ballot. The relative attractiveness of Pearse Doherty in the current political landscape should stand to him in attracting many habitual voters un-moored by recent events, enough to get him over the line. One could argue that he cannot lose long-term for if by chance he doesn't win the seat tomorrow he'll surely do so in the general election, where his local strength plus any boost to SF nationally should have him ahead despite the larger number of candidates (incl. strong incumbents alas!). There's also the 'tea-time rush' to come too, so I'd expect turnout at the end to compare ok to other by-elections in recent history. I'd guess Doherty has it, either by a whisker or by a mile.

[C. Flower]

Worries me abit tbh.


FFers stay at home rather then vote for the other crowd ?

Disillusionment means only FFers were exercised to vote ?


Not many reports about, no sign of an exit poll

"A plague on both your houses" can be a recipe for getting the worst option.

Most likely if there's a low turnout it will be across the spectrum. We'll know soon enough.

[Dr. FIVE]

http://www.broadsheet.ie/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/pearse-doherty.png

My favourite moment of the election anyway
How far away is BOD in that photo ?


Hopefully it will sum things up tomorrow

[Ah Well]

I note the FAI are likely letting Packie Bonner go in those redundancies so he'll be a free agent. FF approached him to stand before http://www.independent.ie/national-news/fianna-fail-wants-packie-to-save-atrisk-seat-in-donegal-2400589.html so I wonder will he stand for them in the GE rerun of Donegal South West in a few weeks/months?

[moss]

I note the FAI are likely letting Packie Bonner go in those redundancies so he'll be a free agent. FF approached him to stand before http://www.independent.ie/national-news/fianna-fail-wants-packie-to-save-atrisk-seat-in-donegal-2400589.html so I wonder will he stand for them in the GE rerun of Donegal South West in a few weeks/months?


Oh god please no more debates about jerseys/subs/4th subs/on the bench

[charley]

"A plague on both your houses" can be a recipe for getting the worst option.

Most likely if there's a low turnout it will be across the spectrum. We'll know soon enough.

Went down to vote about an hour ago ,the place was deserted ,very poor showing

[I Killed Shergar]

According to Labour Councillor Joe Ryan on Twitter:


Sinn Féin 33%
Fianna Fáil 21%
Labour 19%
Fine Gael 18%
Independent (Pringle) 8%

[C. Flower]

According to Labour Councillor Joe Ryan on Twitter:


Sinn Féin 33%
Fianna Fáil 21%
Labour 19%
Fine Gael 18%
Independent (Pringle) 8%

Is that the Independent who stood down ?

[I Killed Shergar]

Is that the Independent who stood down ?

No that was Anne Sweeney - she hadn't a snowballs chance in hell anyway.

Pringle is an ex-SF councillor

[C. Flower]

No that was Anne Sweeney - she hadn't a snowballs chance in hell anyway.

Pringle is an ex-SF councillor

Really? Why ex, and what are here politics?

[Kid Ryder]

Polls are closed a couple of hours now, so there should be some word of estimated turnout. Anyone hear?

[Dr. FIVE]

Been told Frank had to be 'escorted' out of a polling station by the guards after becoming quite obnoxious at lunch time today in Stranorlar. Several people have relayed this now.


i:D

[C. Flower]

Polls are closed a couple of hours now, so there should be some word of estimated turnout. Anyone hear?

60% ish. RTE.

[Ah Well]

Been told Frank had to be 'escorted' out of a polling station by the guards after becoming quite obnoxious at lunch time today in Stranorlar. Several people have relayed this now.


Gilmore will be having another Facepalm moment then when this story breaks :D

http://www.liquidmatrix.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/facepalm.jpg

[moss]

Polls are closed a couple of hours now, so there should be some word of estimated turnout. Anyone hear?


RTE reported 52% - 62% depending on area.

Falcarragh and Gortahork highest turnout.

[moss]

Really? Why ex, and what are here politics?

Wouldn't surprise me if there was a story there.

On Pat Kenny when Pringle was asked about leaving SF and the reasons for it, PD looked very nervous. Only time I've seen him look nervous in recent times as he's been riding the crest of the wave.

Pringle mumbled a bit also and def didn't try to stick the boot into his old party and competition for the seat.

[Sam Lord]

Falcarragh and Gortahork highest turnout.

Do all the Shinners with holiday homes there have a vote? ;)

[moss]

Do all the Shinners with holiday homes there have a vote? ;)

:D Had a few pointed out to me last time I was in Gortahork.
All very modest looking, don't ya know.

[Design for Life]

60% ish. RTE.
Should be void. How can any democracy take itself seriously when there isn't near full turnout?

There are obviously reasons people didn't vote and they're more serious than just "ah couldn't be bothered me hole".



I saw figures on twitter of 20% for FF... dunno if someone just made it up though

[TotalMayhem]

Should be void. How can any democracy take itself seriously when there isn't near full turnout?

What difference does it make? Look at Belgium, where voting is mandatory: they don't even have a government. :)

[Sam Lord]

Should be void. How can any democracy take itself seriously when there isn't near full turnout?

There are obviously reasons people didn't vote and they're more serious than just "ah couldn't be bothered me hole".



I saw figures on twitter of 20% for FF... dunno if someone just made it up though

20% of 60% is about 12 persons in one hundred of the electorate.

[eoinmn]

Tallies showing after 124 of 137 boxes (90%):

SF 39.8%,
FF 20.9%,
FG 18.4%,
Labour 10.4%,
Pringle 10.2%.

[eoinmn]

Based on tallies.. #DSW compared to 2007 GE.
FF -29,
FG -5,
Labour +7,
Sinn Fein +19.

Great result for Labour and SF.

Terrible result for FG.

[C. Flower]

Looking like SF on 40% of the vote on the first count - Gerry Adams saying that this is because people want a "real Republic".

[Lifeisagame]

Based on tallies.. #DSW compared to 2007 GE.
FF -29,
FG -5,
Labour +7,
Sinn Fein +19.

Great result for Labour and SF.

Terrible result for FG.
Definitely looks like SF but great to see FG fall. Might put more pressure on Kenny as a reduction would be really bad for him.

[eoinmn]

There will be mutterings around Kenny's leadership again, but I doubt anything will happen before the Spring GE.
I'm happy to see the FG vote down. They are just clones of FF.

[Lifeisagame]

There will be mutterings around Kenny's leadership again, but I doubt anything will happen before the Spring GE.
I'm happy to see the FG vote down. They are just clones of FF.
RTE shows FG up???

[disability student]

It only confirms it to ourselves that FG are on the same coin as FF. Such similarities in numbers,mindset, no opposition to FF most of the time in the Dail.

It was SF who did most of the work prodding, fighting & by taking action in the Four courts.

Today by election was a total waste of money... useless and that money could be used for mental hospitals treating people such as attempted suicides. It says so much about Irish politics and the politicans themselves- very bad. The politicans don't give a feck all about us.

Will set up a separate thread - politican expenses ... recieved it from someone.

[Lifeisagame]

It only confirms it to ourselves that FG are on the same coin as FF. Such similarities in numbers,mindset, no opposition to FF most of the time in the Dail.

It was SF who did most of the work prodding, fighting & by taking action in the Four courts.

Today by election was a total waste of money... useless and that money could be used for mental hospitals treating people such as attempted suicides. It says so much about Irish politics and the politicans themselves- very bad. The politicans don't give a feck all about us.

Will set up a separate thread - politican expenses ... recieved it from someone.
Sad, but you are only repeating what we all feel.

[eoinmn]

Linky to RTE?

http://electionsireland.org/result.cfm?election=2007&cons=74

[Fraxinus]

Good to see Doherty cruise home but there is something seriously mentally retarded about 20% of the Donegal electorate....and especially after the week that's in it.

[Andrew49]

McBrearty reported to be gutted and is staying at home and won't appear at the count. he should appear at the count and congratulate SF and also thank those who voted Labour.

[TotalMayhem]

Gerry Adams saying that this is because people want a "real Republic".

No, because the people begin to see through FF/FG/Lab!

[C. Flower]

I'm going to merge the two Donegal threads. :)

Labour talking about a recount according to RTe news, must mean Labour behind Pringle #dsw10

[Fraxinus]

McBrearty reported to be gutted and is staying at home and won't appear at the count. he should appear at the count and congratulate SF and also thank those who voted Labour.

It seems fairly shambolic for Labour but were they expecting much in this constituency?

[moss]

It seems fairly shambolic for Labour but were they expecting much in this constituency?

Well they did triple their % from 2007. Though starting from a pretty low base of 3 %

[Kid Ryder]

FF have sent Mary Coughlan to the count centre to concede defeat. I suppose deep down she's pleased there's an FF quota out there still, after all that has happened. She won't say this in public mind, but this means she's now one of the few FFers likely to survive, even despite the utter shyte she often comes out with. Depends on what the Cope's people do though, but there's a gale blowing against them now, it wouldn't be likely that he'd come back to fight in these conditions, and the Cope's end of the constituency is the more competitive end AFAIK.

[Fraxinus]

FF have sent Mary Coughlan to the count centre to concede defeat. I suppose deep down she's pleased there's an FF quota out there still, after all that has happened. She won't say this in public mind, but this means she's now one of the few FFers likely to survive, even despite the utter shyte she often comes out with. Depends on what the Cope's people do though, but there's a gale blowing against them now, it wouldn't be likely that he'd come back to fight in these conditions, and the Cope's end of the constituency is the more competitive end AFAIK.

It's a travesty that FF can keep their vote up to those levels. Coughlan also has the advantage of being an heir...ironic seeing as she is a complete heir head.

[moss]

RTE results now, well first count

[Lá an Lúbáin]

I'd say Doc on 39% first preferences on the day, based on solidly fragile guesswork. What do you want? I'm not Keith-M.

*cough*

Guess made before Red C poll

[Fraxinus]

*cough*

Guess made before Red C poll

39.5% Lá.....must try harder:)

[Dr. FIVE]

The spirit of Micheal Collins, jaysus

[moss]

The spirit of Micheal Collins, jaysus

Heard that.

Wonder who'll invoke the name of the baby jesus.

[Lá an Lúbáin]

Pringle beat Mc Brearty

[moss]

Anne Sweeney who withdrew got 133 votes :)

[5intheface]

Pringle beat Mc Brearty

fifth sub?

[5intheface]

Anne Sweeney who withdrew got 133 votes :)

Buile Suibhne?

[Captain Con O'Sullivan]

Heard that.

Wonder who'll invoke the name of the baby jesus.

I hear rumours that Fianna Fail are going to run another celebrity candidate in the Wesht- Bean Ui Cribin.

They are going after the youth/insane vote.

[tea drinker]

Looking like SF on 40% of the vote on the first count - Gerry Adams saying that this is because people want a "real Republic".
In fairness he is spot on. Right now we have a faux republic, it's a monarchist/elitist society. What's worse is it's not even as good as the Brit version of this.

As already said, I am galled that FF can still rustle up 17% of the vote, I am flabbergasted that anyone could touch FF right now.
Right now is our opportunity to destroy that party and remake politics and society in Ireland, and at least 17% of people don't want it. Given the number of people paid by FF one can see where a good portion of the vote comes from, but now we are back to Gerry Adams statement.
I honestly believe that FF could roast babies on the street and still get ~5% of the vote. Many people in Eire are anti social or sociopaths, and get by on the guise of FF supporters. We need real groundswell support to quash these fundamentalists and fanatics.

[Fraxinus]

In fairness he is spot on. Right now we have a faux republic, it's a monarchist/elitist society. What's worse is it's not even as good as the Brit version of this.

As already said, I am galled that FF can still rustle up 17% of the vote, I am flabbergasted that anyone could touch FF right now.
Right now is our opportunity to destroy that party and remake politics and society in Ireland, and at least 17% of people don't want it. Given the number of people paid by FF one can see where a good portion of the vote comes from, but now we are back to Gerry Adams statement.
I honestly believe that FF could roast babies on the street and still get ~5% of the vote. Many people in Eire are anti social or sociopaths, and get by on the guise of FF supporters. We need real groundswell support to quash these fundamentalists and fanatics.

Absolutely.

Not to rain on the SF parade but I think it would be best if beardy went too. He has many FF attributes.

[5intheface]

I hear rumours that Fianna Fail are going to run another celebrity candidate in the Wesht- Bean Ui Cribin.

They are going after the youth/insane vote.

Well the LP's attempt to hoover up the Tourettes vote with McBrearty didn't work!

[charley]

Do all the Shinners with holiday homes there have a vote? ;)

O'Donnell is from Gortahork ,the big turnout would be his extended family ,every second house is related to him either by blood or marriage

[Sidewinder]

With FF on 18% nationally according to RedC etc, to only get 20% in one of their traditional die-hard strongholds bodes very well indeed for the GE. Remember they got over 50% of first preferences here 3 years ago!

And people still don't quite get their heads around the sheer scale and extent of the FF corruption networks, rigged markets, slush funds, favours and patronage, inflated contracts, protection from competition, restricted entry, tax breaks and subsidies....there's a lot of people that benefit from all this crap and think it is a good thing.

Killing FF will be a lengthy (and viciously dirty) process that will involve a lot of noise, hysteria, and lengthy court cases, they aren't just going to roll over. But at these levels of support amongst the populace, it's now something that is do-able as they are clearly a small minority now.

[C. Flower]

With FF on 18% nationally according to RedC etc, to only get 20% in one of their traditional die-hard strongholds bodes very well indeed for the GE. Remember they got over 50% of first preferences here 3 years ago!

And people still don't quite get their heads around the sheer scale and extent of the FF corruption networks, rigged markets, slush funds, favours and patronage, inflated contracts, protection from competition, restricted entry, tax breaks and subsidies....there's a lot of people that benefit from all this crap and think it is a good thing.

Killing FF will be a lengthy (and viciously dirty) process that will involve a lot of noise, hysteria, and lengthy court cases, they aren't just going to roll over. But at these levels of support amongst the populace, it's now something that is do-able as they are clearly a small minority now.

I think that's very measured and realistic. But the speed of events at the moment is breakneck.

The election result is evidence of this. The biggest shock here is surely to Fine Gael and Labour.

A Left - Republican Alliance could be a serious force, if enough seats were contested.

[TotalMayhem]

The biggest shock here is surely to Fine Gael and Labour.

Not at all. Neither Kenny nor Gilmore have represented themselves as viable alternatives. They are just IMF lackeys in waiting.

[C. Flower]

Not at all. Neither Kenny nor Gilmore have represented themselves as viable alternatives. They are just IMF lackeys in waiting.


Yes, but they expected to be a shoe in. That is plainly not the case.

[C. Flower]

This may affect timing of a General Election - have it sooner, before things get worse, or push for a "state of emergency" national government and delay the GE.

McBrearty knocked out on the 3rd count, according to RTE.

[Sidewinder]

A Left - Republican Alliance could be a serious force, if enough seats were contested.

Just realised that when you add together Doherty, McBrearty and Pringle you get over 20,000 FPs, or 60% of the vote! In Donegal! :eek:

Bloody hell, never thought I'd see the day when FF/FG combined were a minority up here!

[C. Flower]

Just realised that when you add together Doherty, McBrearty and Pringle you get over 20,000 FPs, or 60% of the vote! In Donegal! :eek:

Bloody hell, never thought I'd see the day when FF/FG combined were a minority up here!

If you look at the trends in Dublin even back at the Locals/EUs this was a prospect even then.

[TotalMayhem]

If SF keep the ball rolling as the only party of considerable weight in opposition to the IMF, we will not have a general election. National Government, Enabling Act, call it what you like, but elections will not be allowed by the EU/IMF.

[Slim Buddha]

Just realised that when you add together Doherty, McBrearty and Pringle you get over 20,000 FPs, or 60% of the vote! In Donegal! :eek:

Bloody hell, never thought I'd see the day when FF/FG combined were a minority up here!

With intelligent vote management, the last seat may be between FF and FG. Is there any possibility of Pringle going back into SF before the GE? McBrearty is going nowhere, he was a poor candidate and symptomatic of the weird candidate selection in which Labour are engaging outside Dublin (a PD representing them in Longford-Westmeath and an eccentric ex-hurling goalkeeper in Clare, for example)

[disability student]

FFer's have lost almost of 50% in first preference votes since 2007. It doesn't look good for them although the national poll for FF was 21%. But Donegal was FF stronghold for a long time and got a 21% vote. I'm surprised that some people would STILL vote for FF-traitors.

In comparsion to other electoral areas where FF isn't the strongest will take a hammering in the next GE. It has some shades of 2009 where FF got slaughtered in the local elections re council seats.

[yehbut_nobut]

count details here http://electionsireland.org/counts.cfm?election=2007B&cons=74&ref=

but am i reading this right? NO transfers from McBrearty to FF or FG? Or have they just not been distributed yet? Anyone elighten me and explain what the figures show

edit: listening to results on highland radio: http://links.pollenzone.com/highlandradio.asx They're at variance with the figures listed on electionsireland.org; According to the radio there were transfers from McBrearty to FF and FG, about 150 and 830 respectively I didnt note down the exact numbers!). Also the radio's quoted figures for the 3rd count don't agree with those shown on the website - out by a few hundred for each candidate- make of that what you will

[moss]

17.15 Pierce Doherty's vote is now 15488, after the results of the third count. Thomas Pringle's vote is now being redistributed

Thomas Pringle (+53) 3,491Quota is 17213

http://www.rte.ie/news/2010/1126/donegaltracker.html

[Sidewinder]

count details here http://electionsireland.org/counts.cfm?election=2007B&cons=74&ref=

but am i reading this right? NO transfers from McBrearty to FF or FG? Or have they just not been distributed yet? Anyone elighten me and explain what the figures show

Nope, all McBrearty's transfers went to Doherty or Pringle and none - not a single one! - went to FF or FG. 38% of his votes were non-transferable, so either loads of people voted McBrearty #1 and stopped there, or loads of them voted for Ann Sweeny #2 and she was already eliminated.

[Béal na Bláth]

Yes, but they expected to be a shoe in. That is plainly not the case.

The candidates for both FG and particularly Labour were very weak tbh. McBrearty came across as belligerent and very much old style parish pump on both TV debates (arguing with a member of the audience on Frontline wtf?), while Barry O'Neill seemed far too timid. Delighted for Pearse Doherty and Sinn Féin. Well deserved. Candidate selection in GE more crucial than ever now.

[disability student]

count details here http://electionsireland.org/counts.cfm?election=2007B&cons=74&ref=

but am i reading this right? NO transfers from McBrearty to FF or FG? Or have they just not been distributed yet? Anyone elighten me and explain what the figures show

yes your'e correct on what you were seeing there:

Transfers of Mc Brearty's votes went to:

Pearse Doherty 1752

Thomas Pringle 325


Other transferable votes 1298 not effective.

[Sidewinder]

This will be the last count I think, as after Pringle's votes are distributed even if Doherty is still short of the quota then O'Neills 6400 will probably not be enough to affect the outcome - even if every single one of them transferred to O'Domhnaill he would still be a few thousand behind Doherty.

[Fraxinus]

With FF on 18% nationally according to RedC etc, to only get 20% in one of their traditional die-hard strongholds bodes very well indeed for the GE. Remember they got over 50% of first preferences here 3 years ago!And people still don't quite get their heads around the sheer scale and extent of the FF corruption networks, rigged markets, slush funds, favours and patronage, inflated contracts, protection from competition, restricted entry, tax breaks and subsidies....there's a lot of people that benefit from all this crap and think it is a good thing.

Killing FF will be a lengthy (and viciously dirty) process that will involve a lot of noise, hysteria, and lengthy court cases, they aren't just going to roll over. But at these levels of support amongst the populace, it's now something that is do-able as they are clearly a small minority now.

I suppose when ya put it like that, even if they polled at 20% their vote still collapsed massively.

I really hope this is the begining of a public purge against those hoors. Let it forever be remembered that FF means treachery, corruption and downright misery.

[Socialist Republican]

The candidates for both FG and particularly Labour were very weak tbh. McBrearty came across as belligerent and very much old style parish pump on both TV debates (arguing with a member of the audience on Frontline wtf?), while Barry O'Neill seemed far too timid. Delighted for Pearse Doherty and Sinn Féin. Well deserved. Candidate selection in GE more crucial than ever now.

This is a woeful result for both FG and Labour. Not in that they didnt win the seat, Labour never had a chance of winning and FG were always up against it to win that seat, but that they done so badly compared to what they expected.

FF will be fairly happy with the result. They knew it was gone from day 1 but it wasnt as bad as they expected and they outpolled both main opposition parties especially FG.

Labour were even outpolled by Thomas Pringle (Ind) for whom that was a very good result

[yehbut_nobut]

Pearse Doherty confirmed elected not having reached the quota. 16897 in total

[TotalMayhem]

David McCullough: "Could have been worse for FF." :D

[Sidewinder]

RTE news was as expected a complete disgrace...

[TotalMayhem]

From broadsheet.ie:

Donegal By-Election: Why Did Sean Perry Try And Stop Photographs Being Taken Of Mary Coughlan? (http://www.broadsheet.ie/2010/11/26/donegal-by-election-why-did-sean-perry-try-and-stop-photographs-being-taken-of-mary-coughlan/)

[5intheface]

Hard luck Brian

http://irishelectionliterature.files.wordpress.com/2010/11/odomh1.jpg?w=276&h=583

Still, it's good to have something to fall back on;

http://www.backstreet-merch.com/images/products/bands/cd-dvd/cswin/bsi_cswin09.gif

Scary.

[Slim Buddha]

From broadsheet.ie:

Donegal By-Election: Why Did Sean Perry Try And Stop Photographs Being Taken Of Mary Coughlan? (http://www.broadsheet.ie/2010/11/26/donegal-by-election-why-did-sean-perry-try-and-stop-photographs-being-taken-of-mary-coughlan/)

Who is paying this pilchards salary?

[Captain Con O'Sullivan]

No good asking Mary. She thinks he followed her home from the States.

[Captain Con O'Sullivan]

I like the little Coms wire in his ear as well from Fianna Fail HQ in an abandoned piggery at Ned O'Keeffe's place in Cork. Could be a caption comp in it...

Imagine the messages;


"We're f*cked. We are so f*cked. F*cked doesn't cover it. We are so f....."

[Dr. FIVE]

So,

When can we expect DSW II ?

[Andrew49]

Hard luck Brian

http://irishelectionliterature.files.wordpress.com/2010/11/odomh1.jpg?w=276&h=583

Still, it's good to have something to fall back on;

http://www.backstreet-merch.com/images/products/bands/cd-dvd/cswin/bsi_cswin09.gif

Scary.

I knew the face was familiar - I wonder who advised him to be photographed in a gray suit - he looks far better in black!

[Ah Well]

Seeing as Doherty's Seanad Seat is now vacant is this to be filled by election of a successful Nominee from the Nominating Bodies in the Agricultural Panel?

The state of play in 2007

http://electionsireland.org/result.cfm?election=2007S&cons=2

And the list of Nominating Bodies

Agricultural Panel
Agricultural Science Association
Central Fisheries Board
Dairy Executives' Association
Irish Thoroughbred Breeders' Association
Irish Co-Operative Organisation Society
Irish Grain and Feed Association
Irish Greyhound Owners and Breeders Federation
Munster Agricultural Society Company Ltd
National Association of Regional Game Councils
National Executive of the Irish live Stock Trade
Royal Dublin Society (RDS)

[Anti-Coalition]

Did anyone notice the weird RTE editing on the late news tonight, where they showed Eamon Gilmore talking ***** about the big Labour gains in Donegal, and then suddenly flashed to his little white hands, which he was wringing tightly...as if he was getting a good prodding from behind?

http://www.rte.ie/news/2010/1126/donegal.html#video

[wickedfairy]

Maybe they'd be better with a terrorist from sinn fein ?

Oops!

[disability student]

When is the next 3 by elections set for?? I mean Dublin, Donegal and Waterford. It's pointless to hold these 3 by elections now until the next GE.

[wickedfairy]

Who is paying this pilchards salary?

you are ;)

[truth.ie]

O Domnhall was asked last week about the IMF.
"Not on my watch" he replied.
Good to see some politicians sticking to their election promises.

[Slim Buddha]

you are ;)

Eh, no I'm not. Check the top right corner of this post. But it does seem that you are. ;)

[C. Flower]

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs1225.snc4/155789_1635847255067_1203280695_31826594_7850008_n .jpg

[C. Flower]

Doherty storming it in the Dail. On the Live Stream or RTE 2 now.

[C. Flower]

Classic new member hitting it hard. The Chair is struggling to get him to use Parliamentary language.

You are not meant to call members gombeens, apparently.

[Binn Beal]

He's making all the right noises - looking good for SF in the General Election.

[whydontwe]

Doherty storming it in the Dail. On the Live Stream or RTE 2 now.

Thats the fella...couldnt remember his name....didnt put a word wrong....absolutely brilliant....fair play to him !

[whydontwe]

He's making all the right noises - looking good for SF in the General Election.

Correct Binn...wish I had thousands a votes....he's so refreshing for a change...if that class of orator is in Sinn Fein come next election....they're gonna get lot a young votes I think!

[C. Flower]

http://www.rte.ie/news/2010/1207/budget_political_reax.html#video

P D's speech

[Béal na Bláth]

http://www.rte.ie/news/2010/1207/budget_political_reax.html#video

P D's speech

The sheer passion and sincerity incredibly refreshing. Donegal should be very proud tonight, a fantastic maiden speech. The reference to Lowry & Healy Rae sweetheart deals needed to be read into Dáil record. The Big Fellow spinning a little less tonight methinks.

[Fraxinus]

Classic new member hitting it hard. The Chair is struggling to get him to use Parliamentary language.

You are not meant to call members gombeens, apparently.

And refer to Queen Mary as Her Highness!