Several Fianna Fáil TDs to have reacted positively to the news that former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern has rejoined the party after 11 years.
On Wednesday this week it was reported that Ahern, who had resigned from the party in 2012, had applied to rejoin the party and had his application accepted.
Notably, Ahern originally left years ago while the Fianna Fáil party was considering expelling him over the controversial findings of Mahon Tribunal against him.
Now that the former Fianna Fáil leader has returned, some TDs in the party herald it as positive news.
“I’m delighted,” said former Minister Éamon Ó Cuiv TD, reacting to the news. “He has a huge contribution to make.”
He added that Ahern is one of the only figures who has “good standing” with both republicans and loyalists in the North.
Laois Offaly TD Barry Cowen also said that he was “delighted” with the news, adding that Ahern’s “vast experience and knowledge will be an inspiration to other members in Dublin Central and beyond.”
Cowen hailed Ahern’s “keen interest in our country’s welfare,” and his contribution to the Peace Process.
Speaking to the Irish Times, Fianna Fáil Senator Niall Blaney, said “I’m delighted he’s back,” citing Ahern’s contribution to “balanced regional development” and “an economy that works for every citizen on the island.”
In addition, Dublin Fianna Fáil TD John Lahart said that “We don’t live in a cancel culture,” adding that Ahern “has something unique to contribute to political developments on this island” and also the North.
Dublin TD Jim O’Callaghan told the Irish Times that in the context of commemorating 25 years of the Good Friday Agreement, it was “important and appropriate” that Bertie Ahern, “one of the driving forces behind the agreement,” rejoined the party.
Ex-Fianna Fáil Minister Conor Lenihen, when asked on Newstalk Breakfast if Ahern would be an asset to Fianna Fáil, replied “Oh good Lord yes, of course” adding that Bertie Ahern is still “hugely welcomed and hugely popular” with the general public.
Conor Lenihan asked on @NTBreakfast if Bertie Ahern will be an asset to Fianna Fáil
“Oh good Lord yes”
— Seán Defoe (@SeanDefoe) February 9, 2023
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