Sligo publican is VFI’s Seanad nomination

The VFI’s Chief Executive Padriag Cribben has called on all its members to back the Federation’s nomination of Sligo-based publican Councillor Imelda Henry for the Seanad in the upcoming Seanad Éireann elections.

If elected, Imelda will represent the VFI on the Industrial and Commercial Panel.
 
Along with her husband Aiden, Imelda runs one of Sligo’s best-known pubs, The Blue Lagoon, which used to be run by her parents Mollsie and Peter who was a founding member of the VFI.

Imelda’s knowledge of the pub trade and local issues isn’t confined to her time behind the counter either. As a Fine Gael Councillor she’s been a member of Sligo County Council since 2004 and is currently a member of the Health Forum West, Border Regional Authority, Border Midland and Western Assembly and the Association of City and County Councils.
 
Seanad Éireann is seen as an important avenue for the Federation as this facilitates access to senior ministers and Departmental officials. It also  gives a voice at Parliamentary Party meetings and gives the VFI an opportunity to raise issues relevant to the licensed trade in the Chamber.
 
VFI Chief Executive Padriag Cribben commented, “It’s extremely important for the VFI to have a presence in Seanad Éireann. This is something we have missed since the late Michael Howard represented the VFI on the Industrial and Commercial Panel. Our industry is experiencing some really difficult times and having a strong, hard-working and experienced person like Imelda elected to the Seanad would be very beneficial”.