Fine Gael Leaders Defend John McGahon's Candidacy

Fine Gael leader Simon Harris has reaffirmed the party's support for Senator John McGahon, who is running for election in Louth despite being found civilly liable for assaulting farmer Breen White in 2018. A High Court jury awarded White €39,000 after determining that McGahon was 65% responsible for the injuries he sustained during a late-night altercation outside a pub. While McGahon was acquitted of assault charges in a criminal trial, he maintains that he acted in self-defense. Recent media reports included images of White's injuries, prompting criticism from White, who expressed disappointment in Harris's characterization of the incident as merely a 'scuffle'. Both Harris and Justice Minister Helen McEntee defended McGahon, emphasizing that the legal proceedings have already addressed the incident thoroughly. The controversy comes as Fine Gael prepares for the upcoming general election, with McGahon's candidacy now under scrutiny.