GE2020: Boxer needs a 'miracle' to be re-elected

(Above) Kevin 'Boxer' Moran.

Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran says that it will take a ‘miracle’ for him to be re-elected.

Speaking at the Longford Westmeath count in AIT, the outgoing minister for state said that after securing more than 1,000 first preference votes less than in 2016, it is highly unlikely that he will retain his seat.

According to the tally he is in fifth place behind poll topper Sorca Clarke (SF), Robert Troy (FF), Joe Flaherty (FF) and Peter Burke (FG). 'Boxer' believes that the candidates ahead of him, plus Michael Carrigy (FG), who is in sixth place, are more transfer friendly.

If he doesn’t get re-elected he says that he will take a month off to “go fishing” and spend time with his wife before going back to work in his taxi firm.

“I enjoyed it. I had great craic. I would do it all again. I’d say Longford Westmeath is losing a very good politician in terms of what I delivered and what I worked at.”

He also says that something needs to be done to tackle the online abuse directed at politicians and their families.

He said that the level of “hatred” directed him and his son Jamie, a councillor in Westmeath County Council, was “horrendous”.

“It was disgraceful. It shouldn’t happen. I think the people who go into the Dáil should fast track that bill [on online harassment].

“...To me I’m thick skinned I let it wash over, but for young people coming in I worry about it. It’s something that has to change. But that new bill, I hope it comes in sooner rather than later.”