By Meath Live Reporter
MEATH Live can confirm that a credible source close to the local community in Navan is seeing a wave of reactions among residents and members of the Fine Gael Party, eager for clarity about the vacancy emerging from the departure of former Councillor Linda Nelson Murray, who vacated her seat for a position in the Seanad.
In a Meath Live exclusive, the source confirmed that according to the Local Government Act 2003 (No 2), the responsibility for selecting a replacement falls to the Fine Gael Party. However, weeks have passed since the vacancy arose and the process now appears to be at a standstill. Meanwhile speculation has leaned towards Fine Gael chairperson for Navan Town, Ross Kelly as the only known candidate for the position.
Cllr Yemi Adenuga and Senator Linda Nelson Murray, pictured with Navan Fine Gael Chairperson Ross Kelly
Mr Kelly contested the last local election and although unsuccessful, he and his family have remained a visible presence in Linda Nelson Murray’s political campaigns including her recent bid for a seat in Dail Eireann. The Navan Fine Gael branch led by Mr Kelly himself has expressed eagerness for the co-option to be finalised, but frustration is mounting over lack of progress despite his qualifications and strong local ties.
Sources close to the delay in reaching clarity suggest that the situation may be linked to Fine Gael Headquarters control over the decision-making process amid growing speculation that Senator Nelson Murray may want a say in choosing her replacement. The suggestion of the Senator’s family members on the table for consideration has fuelled further uncertainty, a situation that could be remedied by the influence of Fine Gael’s central leadership which is significant in such matters.
The credible source confirmed to Meath Live that while the Party prides itself on democratic processes, the reality is that much of the decision-making power lies with Fine Gael’s senior leadership. The ongoing vacuum created by the confirmed election of Senator Nelson Murray will remain for as long as her former seat remains vacant.
For now, the source confirmed that residents of Navan and the local Fine Gael Party continue to wait for clarity. With the vacancy still unfilled, many are left to wonder when and if the co-option will finally take place.
