Taoiseach’s wife steps down from Fine Gael fundraising role

Taoiseach Enda Kenny's wife is stepping aside from her role in organising an annual fundraising lunch for Fine Gael, which usually takes place in November.

An email was sent out to members of the parliamentary party this week informing them that “after many years as driver of the event”, Fionnuala Kenny will hand over the organisation of the annual Ladies Lunch to others.

The event has been a fixture of the Fine Gael calendar for years and was last year held in the InterContinental Hotel in Ballsbridge. The lunch itself, however, predates Mr Kenny's time as leader.

This year’s event will take place in the same venue on Friday, November 18th.

While on its own the move is seen as unremarkable, some in Fine Gael are speculating that it may be tied into Mr Kenny’s future leadership intentions.

The email, from Helen Connolly, the Fine Gael head of fundraising, said: "After very many years as the driver of this event, Fionnuala Kenny has asked that she take a step back and hand over to you (and I quote!) 'wonderful, capable and confident' women in the Fine Gael parliamentary party.

“She will of course be attending the lunch. While appreciating its value in terms of fundraising as well as galvanising women supporters, Fionnuala made the point the concept is a bit dated and in need of an overhaul, and I agree.

“She has asked me to consult with you and get your input regarding changes that could be made to the event to overhaul it.”

Last year’s event was attended by more than 300 people, with Ms Kenny introduced as “the most influential person in Ireland”.