No ‘bitter row’ between the Healy-Raes following Michael’s resignation, Danny says
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- Independent Kerry TD Danny Healy-Rae has denied reports of a significant political rift with his brother, fellow TD Michael Healy-Rae.
- The denial comes after an article in the Kerry Eye newspaper suggested a "bitter row" over Danny's vote against the government in a confidence motion, allegedly leading to Michael's resignation as Minister of State.
- Sources cited in the Kerry Eye report also claimed Michael and his son would run on a joint platform excluding Danny, and that Michael was seeking to align with other Independents.
The Irish Times addresses political maneuvering within the Healy-Rae family, with Danny Healy-Rae publicly refuting claims of a major falling out with his brother, Michael. The controversy stems from Danny's decision to vote against the government in a recent confidence motion, a move that allegedly prompted Michael's resignation from his ministerial post.
While Danny Healy-Rae insists there has been "no falling out at all," the Kerry Eye newspaper has published a report citing sources who allege a "bitter row" and a potential realignment of political alliances within the family. The report suggests Michael and his son, councillor Jackie Healy-Rae, might present a united front in the next election, excluding Danny, and that Michael is exploring independent Dáil speaking rights separate from his brother.
Adding complexity, Fianna Fáil sources indicated to The Irish Times that Michael's resignation might not have been an automatic consequence of Danny's vote, given a prior "two for one" arrangement where both brothers were expected to support the government. The article details the surprise surrounding Michael's resignation, which occurred despite his brother's stated intention to vote against the coalition, raising questions about the internal dynamics and strategic decisions within this prominent political family.
There has been no falling out at all between us, none at all.
Originally published by Irish Times. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.