Fine Gael’s Joe Carey has resigned from the Dáil – the 16th TD elected in 2020 to announce they will not contest the next general election.
The Clare TD has been on sick leave since March last year and said his decision was based on medical advice.
Deputy Carey said: “In the past year, I suffered a life-altering medical situation that I will be dealing with for the rest of my time on earth. While I would dearly wish to continue, my decision to step away is based on medical advice.
“I have had the absolute privilege to serve for the past 25 years as a public representative, eight as a County Councillor and 17 as a TD. I want to express my sincere thanks to my constituents who elected me to represent them on Clare County Council and in Dáil Éireann on six separate occasions.”
In a letter to party members, he expressed his gratitude to them for campaigning with him throughout his political career.
“It is hard to believe but 25 years have passed since I was first elected to Clare County Council. It has been the greatest honour and privilege to be elected as a Fine Gael TD for County Clare at four successive General Elections.
“My electoral success would not have been possible without your unwavering support. I also want to sincerely thank the extraordinary people who have worked with me in my office over the years especially Kathleen Fitzpatrick, Paul Bugler and Ger O’Halloran and, more recently, John Stanton and Lorraine O’Meara.
He added: “I want to take this opportunity to wish Taoiseach, Simon Harris all the best in the forthcoming General Election. His impact has already been spectacular, and I strongly expect the “Harris Hop” to be firmly enjoyed in County Clare and throughout the Country when the next General Election comes around.”
Clare Fine Gael Senator Martin Conway paid tribute to his colleague.
“Joe has been a great advocate for the people of County Clare. In recent times, Joe has undergone significant medical challenges and I have no doubt it has been a very difficult time for him.
“I would like to wish Joe, Grace and their family the very best for the future.”
