George Lee, Posing.
A major split is emerging within Fine Gael, the DisPatch has learned, over allegations that George Lee is demanding special treatment. Certain party stalwarts are also furious that former broadcaster is “hogging the limelight.”
According to inside and outside sources, the trouble started when the Dáil Éireann hopeful demanded his own Dáil television camera, pointed exclusively at him, should he be elected. He is also said to have requested the services of a makeup artist and hair stylist for each sitting of the house.
“There’s more to being a TD than looking good for television,” one long-standing party member grumbled. “Would Michael Collins have worn makeup? I think not.”
Others, however, are said to admire his media savvy, and say the Dáil would be a better place with him in the spotlights. Besides live webcasts, they see an opening for his old employer.
“Maybe RTE could add another channel, a 24 hour George Lee station, so that the legions of his fans around the country could keep up with his good work.”
