Kilkenny TD seeks election to Ceann Comhairle position in Dáil

Fianna Fail will aim to win at least one Dail seat in Offaly

placeholder image — Fianna Fail will aim to win at least one Dail seat in Offaly

Fianna Fail TD celebrated success in recent general election

A Kilkenny TD has joined the race for the position of Ceann Comhairle in the new Dáil.

Carlow-Kilkenny representative John McGuinness of Fianna Fáil has declared his interest in the position and is seeking the support of his fellow TDs.

Deputy McGuinness was reelected in the recent general election, with the first candidate to reach the quota and topping the poll.

He has been a member of Dáil Eireann since 1997. In that time he has chaired two important committees - the Public Account Committee and the Finance Committee. He also served as Minister for Trade and Commerce from 2007 to 2009.

The Ceann Comhairle of the Dáil is the chamber's chairperson. They are expected to be impartial in their work, no matter what their party political background, and do not take part in debates. The sitting Ceann Comhairle does not need to seek reelection.

Election of the Ceann Comhairle will take place by secret ballot on the first sitting day of the new Dáil, next Wednesday, December 18.