Irish Olympic boxing medallist Kenny Egan has announced that he will stand for Fine Gael in the local elections and said that his approach will be to “keep it real.” Mr. Egan had been asked to represent Fianna Fail but was yesterday unveiled as Fine Gael’s latest candidate in the Louis Fitzgerald Hotel, near the Clondalkin Ward where the boxer will compete for a seat at South Dublin County Council.

 
He said he had given serious consideration to the approach from Fianna Fail but had decided to take up the offer from Fine Gael. Speaking about his decision and how he will approach his new political career the Olympic medallist said “My motto is and always has been to ‘Keep it Real’ and I intend to follow this on my political journey. As with my sporting career, I have always aimed for success and if elected, I will bring the same energy to working for my community.”

 
The Taoiseach is one of a number of senior government figures to show their support for Mr. Egan becoming a candidate, along with Children’s Minister Frances Fitzgerald. Speaking yesterday Ms. Fitzgerald said “I am delighted that Kenneth has decided to run for the Local Elections in Clondalkin. He has a proud record as an Olympic silver medallist for Ireland, which is an incredible sporting achievement. I know that Kenneth is very passionate and utterly committed to helping young people in the Clondalkin to achieve the very best they can. I have no doubt that he will be a fantastic addition to the Fine Gael team. ”