Another senior Fine Gael politician has announced he will not be standing in the next general election.
Mayo TD Michael Ring, who served in the Dáil for the past 30 years, said he would not be seeking nomination to contest the general election.
During his political career, Deputy Ring served as Minister of State for Tourism and Sport, Minister for Regional Economic Development and Minister for Community and Rural Development.
“We have enjoyed great success in recent elections, and I am confident in our prospects moving forward,” said Mr Ring.
“Here in Mayo, we have done great work, and I am confident that we will maintain and build on our seats in the next general election and contribute to Fine Gael securing another term in Government.
"I will be doing everything here in Mayo to contribute to this.”
Thanking his constituents, Mr Ring added: “Your trust and support has allowed me to serve you, and I am eternally grateful. Representing you has been an honour, and I am proud of what we have accomplished together.”
Taoiseach Simon Harris said as a colleague, he will be sorely missed in the halls of Leinster House.
“Michael Ring has been a remarkable politician of national importance and representative of his beloved county Mayo.
“Though fiercely loyal to the West, he is known all over this country for his work ethic, his effectiveness, his deep-rooted connection with his constituents and his ability to communicate with wit and charm like no other politician of his generation.
“Michael has had a long and distinguished career representing the Fine Gael party for five decades. He has served as an elected representative for 45 years first starting out on Westport Town Council, then Mayo County Council and for the past 30 years in Dáil Éireann."
Mr Harris added: “Indeed, Michael Ring will go down in history as one of this country’s best loved and most effective local representatives who made waves on the national stage.
“As a colleague, he will be sorely missed in the halls of Leinster House. I hope it is a long and happy retirement and that we continue to benefit from his knowledge, humour and compassion.
“To one of Mayo’s finest, I say thank you.”
