Ex-TD's son may continue family dynasty
THE son of former Fianna Fail TD John O'Donoghue is considering running in the next general election.
Mike Pat O'Donoghue (25), who is currently preparing for his final exams in UCD, said yesterday: "It's definitely something I'd consider in the future."
Mr O'Donoghue said he had not taken his father's recent defeat in the general election too personally.
"He was there 24 years and he did a lot for the people of South Kerry, more so than any politician in the history of South Kerry bar probably Daniel O'Connell," he said.
Despite his father's defeat in Kerry South, the family dynasty would continue if Mr O'Donoghue managed to win back a seat for Fianna Fail in the next general election.
Mr O'Donoghue said he was prepared for the accusations of nepotism that this might invite.
"I think you have to judge each candidate on their individual merit. There's no point me knocking on doors in Kerry South or anywhere saying 'vote for me because I'm such-and-such's son'. You have to have your own policies and your own belief system," he said.
Mr O'Donoghue took a year out from his commerce degree to serve as entertainments vice president in UCD. He now has his own company -- Cod Promotions -- which organises nights out for students.
- Michael Brennan Deputy Political Editor
Irish Independent
