The founder of O'Brien's Sandwich Bars, businessman Brody Sweeney, has told a news conference that he approached Fine Gael to stand as a candidate and that the party had not approached him.
Fine Gael party leader Enda Kenny today welcomed Mr Sweeney into Fine Gael and confirmed he would be seeking a nomination in Dublin North East.
Mr Sweeney said he was concerned about the economy's heavy reliance on foreign businesses and investment.
He said he accepted that the Government was doing a good job in some areas of the economy, but insisted there was a need for change and for new blood.
Enda Kenny, Leader of the Fine Gael Party today said that Brody Sweeney brings a wealth of business and entrepreneurial spirit and drive to Fine Gael, as well as ideas for developing and promoting Irish owned small businesses into the future.
He said he believes Sweeny will make a significant contribution to the party and that he looked forward to working with him.
