The Labour party intends to force a quick by-election in Limerick East in a move that will compel the Government to hold the Dublin North contest on the same day - before it can benefit from the December 3rd Budget. Labour is expected to move the writ early next month to fill the Limerick East vacancy created by the death of Mr Jim Kemmy. Government sources last night said that if the writ is tabled and accepted, it has little option but to proceed on the same day with the Dublin North by-election, caused by the resignation last week of Mr Ray Burke.
The Parliamentary Labour Party will discuss the issue tomorrow.
Labour party sources yesterday said that the former Senator and Lord Mayor of the city, Councillor Jan O'Sullivan, is likely to be its candidate. Mr Kemmy's brother, Joe, is expected to act as director of elections for Ms O'Sullivan.
Traditionally, the party which has lost a serving member of the Dail moves the writ for the by-election.
It is thought unlikely in political circles that the Government would vote down a writ moved by Labour, given the circumstances in which the Limerick East by-election arises.
If the Government does not vote it down and it is accepted by the Dail, the Clerk of the Dail then gives notice to the returning officer for the constituency.
The by-election must take place not later than 25 days - excluding Sundays and Bank Holidays - after the returning officer receives the writ.