Bannon offers support to McFadden

Longford-Westmeath TD James Bannon has offered his support to his constituency and party colleague Nicky McFadden TD, who was recently diagnosed with motor neurone disease.

Deputy Bannon said, “Nicky’s strength and courage in making this news public is indicative of her dedication to her constituency and her determination to put her constituents to the fore at all times.”

The Legan TD went on to “offer Nicky and her family every support possible on my behalf and that of Fine Gael in Longford/Westmeath”.

After revealing her diagnosis, Ms McFadden has vowed to adopt a “business as usual” approach to her job. She said she is determined to maintain her heavy workload and represent her constituents as vigorously as ever.

She said that the onset of her illness has been “subtle”, thus far, only affected her speech. It has not extended to muscle weakness in her arms and legs. She completed a 10-mile walk for the Irish Countrywomen’s Association three weeks ago.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny praised Ms McFadden for the courage with which she was facing her illness.

Ms McFadden was first elected to the Dail in last year’s general election having served as a Senator between 2007 and 2011.