Connolly In talks

Fianna Fails attempts to tempt Hugh Mohan to stand in Cavan Monaghan have run into problems again and Paudge Connolly appears to be keen on offering them a plan B. Cavan Monaghan remains a problem constituency for FF strategists.

There has been some suggestion that FF had nearly landed Mohan, but that he was somewhat spooked by the level of media coverage which surrounded his possible selection. It is not clear that Mohan is ready to do the deal.

If Mohan does not step up to the mark, Connolly might see the FF ticket as his one chance to hold on to his seat. There is a fairly wide spread belief that Connolly is vulnerable, not only from other candidates but also from the lack of endorsement from the respected Hospital Alliance in Monaghan. Connolly was the self selected hospital candidate in 2002 - that ruffled many feathers - and there are definitely those who would like to see him beaten. The Alliance running their own candidate is not beyond the realms of possibility.

To add a little more flavour to the stew, former FF councillor Ray Aughey is now threatening to run. His intention not to win, but to cause as much harm as possible to any parachute candidate that head office would impose.

Ah Monaghan, never a dull moment.