Averil Power has cited Fianna Fáil's 'cynical and cowardly approach to the marriage referendum' as the final straw which led to her decision to leave the party this morning.
Power - who was a huge figure in canvassing for yes vote in the referendum - said:
I have become increasingly uncomfortable in a parliamentary party that is out of touch with the needs and concerns of ordinary people.
I stuck with it, despite everything. I still believed I could help deliver change from within. I was encouraged by the support of like-minded members. An I though things would improve over time.
In terms of Fianna Fáil's leader, Micheal Martin, she described him as a 'a leader without any followers.' She said that party 'doesn’t know what it stands for and lacks credible policies on most major issues.'
The frontbench of the party also came in for criticism from Power, '[They] are all pulling in different directions and prioritising their personal political success over the needs of the party and the country.'
Speaking about next year's election, Power said:
I know I would have a strong chance of being elected for Fianna Fáil in the next election. But I have come to the conclusion that I don’t want to be a Fianna Fáil TD. I want to be true to myself and have the courage to walk away from the party.
Before adding 'It was not an easy decision to make but I am convinced it is the right thing to do.'
hat-tip: thejournal.ie
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