Pat 'the Cope' Gallagher to focus on local politics rather than European

Pat 'the Cope' Gallagher has announce that despite being nominated to contest the convention for the forthcoming European Parliament Elections he will not be allowing his name to go forward to  convention.

The former Leas-Cheann Comhairleach said he will focus his efforts in preparing the party for the local government elections and a possible 2024 General Election in autumn.

The former TD said: "Much needs to be done to best prepare our party for these electoral challenges and we all will play our part in the time ahead to maximise the party’s best chances of winning the optimum number of seats in these different electoral contests."

He said the European Elections are the most pressing challenge and urged people to support the remaining Donegal candidate Senator Niall Blaney, to guarantee Donegal has a candidate in the forthcoming elections. It is essential that we show unity and resolve in the run up to convention in order to secure a Donegal nomination. I wish Niall the best of luck and my complete support in the weeks ahead."

Mr Gallagher thanked those who nominated him saying their confidence and support is greatly

appreciated.

"I remain available as always to assist where possible, please feel free to contact me at

anytime by phone or email. I remain committed to working on behalf of you all," he said.

He paid tribute to the late Noreen Mc Garvey who worked diligently alongside him for almost

twenty years.