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Is there a doctor In the House?

What I predict or think will happen in this election doesn't really matter.
But who cares? Speculating about the success or failure of Dáil Éireann wannabes is fun - especially when they're docs! And there's 10 of them running in this election, so here goes.

First, and I can't get this wrong surely, former Monaghan GP, Dr Rory O'Hanlon, need not bother clearing his desk. As Ceann Comhairle of the 29th Dáil he is automatically returned to the 30th one. Cavan-Monaghan can breathe easy!

He will be joined there by fellow 'Soldiers of Destiny' Dr Jim McDaid (Letterkenny GP) and Dr Jimmy Devins (Sligo GP), representing Donegal North East and Sligo-North Leitrim respectively. A clean sweep for Fianna Fáil docs then. Although, with Dr Dermot Fitzpatrick not standing in Dublin Central this time, there will be one less GP on their benches.

Fine Gael next. Dr John Barton and Dr Bill Tormey will still be practising medicine full time after 24 May. The former, a consultant physician/cardiologist at Portiuncula, is standing in Galway East, while the latter, a consultant pathologist at two Dublin hospitals, is a candidate in Dublin North West.

The rest of Fine Gael's docs are in a for one hell of a battle. GP trainee, Dr Leo Varadkar, has a real possibility of grabbing the final seat in Dublin West. He will narrowly miss out but build enough of a base for the next time around.

In Dublin North, Lusk GP, Dr James Reilly, will get past the finishing post in a very tough battle. His role as a family doctor will probably be what gives him that extra heave over the line.

Elsewhere, Rosslare GP, Dr Liam Twomey, faces a tough battle to retain his Wexford seat but he should just about do it.

Meanwhile, despite suggestions that Independent TD, Dr Jerry Cowley's support has slipped in Mayo, the Mulranny GP's ability to snatch transfers from everywhere should see get him re-elected - but only just.

Finally, retired Crumlin Hospital consultant, Dr Roisín Healy will make an impact in Dublin South Central but not enough to sneak a seat.

The last Dáil had six doctors. The next one will have the same number.

If any of these predictions turn out to be wrong, its my news editor's fault for letting me write such unscientific drivel. If the elections prove that I was right, I take full responsibility for the thoroughly researched, carefully considered, well crafted, political analysis you have just read.

Take none of the blame and all of the credit! Maybe I should consider a career in politics...

Posted in The Vote '07 on 03 May 2007
Tags: doctors, election, Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael