21 October 2008

TDs and Coucillors resign following Budget proposals

The Government has lost two TDs over proposals in the Budget of 14 October 2008 to introduce means testing for medical cards for those over 70.

Joe Behan (Wicklow) resigned from Fianna Fáil on 17 October, while Independent TD Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central) announced he was withdrawing his support for the Government on 20 October.

Town Councillor Billy Buckley (Midleton, Co Cork)announced his resignation from Fianna Fáil on 18 October, and two PD councillors in Galway, Terry O'Flaherty (Galway No 1) and Tom Welby (Conamara), confirmed their resignation on 21 October.