Doherty declares for Fine Gael

Fine Gael Councillor Regina Doherty has declared she will be seeking a nomination from the party to contest the next general election in Meath East. The Ratoath-based counciilor, who sits on Meath County Council representing the Dunshaughlin electroal area, said that she had given considerable thought to the possibility of running in the next election. "In the current climate I believe we need strong, competent and reliable representation to fight for County Meath at national level," she said. "The skills, dedication and work ethos necessary to make a positive difference in our community are those that I emulate and I would be honoured to be able to pursue them as a representative in Dail Eireann," she added. She said the recession and total lack of Government leadership had had a massive impact on people's daily lives. "I believe that we need honourable people of integrity and passion to participate in the political process to offer a new perspective to the electorate." She said that she was not afraid of standing up for what she believed and doing so against tough challenges. "I look forward to asking the people of Meath east to support me," she added. Cllr Doherty was elected to Meath County Council in June of last year with 1,625 first preference votes. She is married with four children. Originally from Dubln, she has lived in Meath for 13 years. Previously a sales director for Horizon Technology Group, she now operates her own IT company from Ashbourne. She is a member of a number of community groups in Ratoath. The councillor is also vice-chairperson of the establishing committee of Gaelscoil Rath Tó and is also serving on the special education group of the National Parents' Council - Primary (NPC).