The Blaney camp had known for days that all was not well with the man they thought would contest the forthcoming general election for them in Donegal North East.
But the exact reason why Niall Blaney decided to leave it until just an hour before the election convention to drop his bombshell still remains a mystery.
Some say the fact that Fianna Fail headquarters insisted on a two candidate strategy was the straw which broke the camel’s back.
But when rumours circulated on Saturday afternoon that a pre-convention meeting had been arranged for the Silver Tassie in Ramelton, the writing was on the wall.
Niall Blaney did not even turn up at the meeting to make the announcement, but left that to his trusted friend and supporter Donal Coyle.
Coyle delivered the few short pre-prepared lines leaving many wondering what had just happened.
This is the short statement issued by Niall Blaney to his supporters.
“It is with regret that I have decided for personal reasons not to contest the forthcoming general election.
“I sincerely thank all who nominated, me worked for me and voted for me. Coming from a deep republican background, I have been proud to serve the people of Donegal North East in Dail Eireann for almost nine years .
“I have done this to the best of my ability and hope that it has made a difference for the people I have represented. I have been honoured by their trust, support and confidence.
“I do not take this decision lightly but it is a decision that I hope my party and supporters can respect. I wish the FF candidates, whoever they might be, every good luck in the campaign,” he said.
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