FINE Gael's chances of retaining its Dail seat in Dublin Central have received a major boost after it emerged that the sitting TD, Mr Jim Mitchell, is likely to reverse his decision to retire from politics.
As a indication of the Fine Gael leadership's determination to ensure Mr Mitchell remains a party candidate, the Taoiseach, Mr Bruton, will attend a special meeting of the Dublin Central constituency organisation tomorrow.
A letter from party headquarters to all Fine Gael members in the constituency says the meeting will discuss the "candidates" position and further developments in relation to the forthcoming general election".
It is believed Mr Mitchell will subsequently confirm his decision to seek re election in the four seat constituency. He has been pressed by Mr Bruton to reconsider his announcement to step out of politics.
His original announcement not to seek re election was met with dismay in Fine Gael as it was widely believed his seat would be lost. The party's alternative candidate, Mr John Kearney, from Cabra, was not expected to retain the seat.
If Mr Mitchell bows to pressure to allow his name to go forward, Fianna Fail will find it difficult to take two seats in the constituency. The party leader, Mr Bertie Ahern, is sure to top the poll but his running mate, Senator Marian McGennis, will find the task of taking the second seat much harder.
Fianna Fail sources last night remained adamant that, with good vote management, Mr Ahern's vote would be sufficient to bring in his running mate.
Mr Mitchell's decision would also put considerable pressure on Labour's outgoing TD, Mr Joe Costello, but should not affect the Independent deputy, Mr Tony Gregory.
Mr Mitchell, a former minister, has an electoral advantage in that he is the only contender in the sprawling constituency from the south side of the city. Dublin Central straddles the Liffey and, with the new boundary changes, extends from Sheriff Street on the northside to Chapelizod on the southside.