Jack and Jill founder will not run for Renua
Party sources confirmed Mr Irwin had decided in recent weeks that due to health reasons he would not be contesting the three-seater.
The founder of the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation was one of the favourites to win a seat for Lucinda Creighton’s new party.
In a statement, Mr Irwin, 74, said he would still be supporting the party’s efforts to get a seat at the election.
“Though I am not physically able to run as a candidate in Kildare South I intend to remain active within the party in any way that I can provide help and assistance. I am still, body and soul an active Renua Ireland member.”
Mr Irwin originally said he wanted to run as a first-time candidate for Renua as he was distressed about the direction main political parties were going and “about the sea of anger and discontent among decent, ordinary citizens”.
He pledged to seek reform on health issues. Mr Irwin’s decision to drop out as a Renua candidate is the second for Ms Creighton’s party after a Galway councillor last week said he was leaving.
Councillor James Charity said he was quitting because of Renua’s alleged U-turn on water charges. He will now run as an Independent and Renua will hold a selection convention once again in Galway West.
Renua sources yesterday said a fresh candidate would now be decided for Kildare South.
However, party sources ruled out Eddie Hobbs, its president who is based in Kildare South, putting his name forward.
