Fine Gael confirms Slowey expulsion

Fine Gael has upheld the decision to expel Donegal Councillor Terence Slowey. He was dismissed from the party a fortnight ago after a disciplinary hearing into his double expenses claim which was described as reckless by a Standards in Public Office Commission hearing.
The hearing, and subsequent expulsion, came after revelations that in 2008 Cllr Slowey attended conferences in Cork and Kerry over a single weekend, but claimed travel expenses for both. He said it was an honest mistake which he rectified as soon as it came to light.
Cllr Slowey appealed the expulsion at an appeal hearing on Saturday, but it was confirmed last night that the decision has been upheld. He remains a member of Donegal County Council.
Terence Slowey had been the Fine Gael whip on Donegal County Council. As of yet, we understand no discussions have taken place on a replacement, but there may be discussions between party councillors today on the fringes of a workshop which is taking place at the chamber in Lifford.