The chairman of Broderick’s, the Dublin-based confectionery company, has stepped down in recent days to avoid a potential conflict of interest. Peter O’Donoghue, a respected businessman, stepped down from the board after he became aware a business associate of his was planning to try and buy the business. This business associate wants to make an offer to the shareholders of Broderick’s and O’Donoghue is resigning in order to avoid any potential conflict of interest as chairman.  Broderick’s spokesperson Conor Dempsey was contacted for comment at 3 pm yesterday, and at 8 pm he said: “I have had no contact at…