Veteran TD Bernard Durkan Loses Seat in Kildare North
After an impressive career spanning over four decades, Fine Gael stalwart Bernard Durkan has lost his seat in Kildare North. The seasoned politician was first elected in 1987 and held the plebiscite for 36 years, becoming a ubiquitous presence in the constituency. This landmark unsuccessful election marks the end of his lengthy tenure as the longest serving TD in Dáil Éireann.
Fianna Fáil’s James Lawless Secures Victory
James Lawless (FF) secured the seat with a commanding lead. “It is a great honour to be elected,” Mr. Lawless said. “I am humbled by the trust placed in me by the people of Kildare North.
My focus now is on representing their interests diligently and ensuring their voices are heard in Leinster House.”
Mr. Lawless’ victory underlined a broader trend observed in the 2020 general election. Fianna Fáil saw a significant resurgence, reasserting itself as a major political force.
Political Landscape Shifts in Kildare North
The unexpected result in Kildare North signifies a shift in the political landscape. For many, it symbolizes the potential surge of new faces and the changing dynamics within Ireland’s political scene. The outcome also reflects discussions on the evolving demands of the charismatic Independent candidates who have gained traction in recent years.
“It is never easy to lose an election,” Dale added. “I want to thank all those who supported me throughout the years. Though this chapter closes for me in Dáil Éireann, I remain committed to serving the people of Kildare North in other ways.”
“My time in the Dáil has been a privilege. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve my community for so many years.”
“I have always prioritized the needs of my constituents,” Durkan emphasised. “It has been my honor to be their voice.”
How did the changing demographics in Kildare North, including a younger electorate, potentially influence Bernard Durkan’s loss?
## Veteran TD Bernard Durkan Loses Seat: A Look Back
**Interviewer:** Joining us today is political commentator Dr. Aoife O’Connell to discuss the recent election results, particularly the surprising loss of veteran Fine Gael TD Bernard Durkan in Kildare North. Welcome, Dr. O’Connell.
**Dr. O’Connell:** Thank you for having me.
**Interviewer:** Mr. Durkan had a remarkable 40-year career in Dáil Éireann. What factors might have contributed to his defeat this time around?
**Dr. O’Connell:** It’s certainly a surprise for many to see such a seasoned politician lose his seat. Several factors likely played a role. Firstly, electoral tides shift, and voter preferences change. Kildare North has become increasingly diverse, with younger voters who might not have the same loyalty towards established figures.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned changing demographics. Could the rise of Sinn Féin also have played a role?
**Dr. O’Connell:** Absolutely. Sinn Féin’s surge in popularity across the country undeniably impacted the election landscape. Many voters, dissatisfied with the status quo, turned to Sinn Féin as a symbol of change.
**Interviewer:** Looking at Mr. Durkan’s recent activities, he was actively involved in the ‘Shared Island’ dialogues, focusing on cross-community engagement. Do you think these issues influence local elections?
**Dr. O’Connell:** While national issues undoubtedly sway voters, local concerns often hold greater weight in constituency elections. While Mr. Durkan’s work on the ‘Shared Island’ initiative is commendable, it might not have resonated as strongly with Kildare North voters as other local issues. [[1](https://bernarddurkan.com/2024/10/24/taoiseach-shared-island-heading/)]
**Interviewer:**
what does Mr. Durkan’s loss signify for Fine Gael as a party?
**Dr. O’Connell:** This loss underscores the challenges Fine Gael faces in adapting to a changing political landscape. The party needs to reconnect with younger voters and address the issues that drove them towards other parties. It remains to be seen how Fine Gael will strategize for the future.
