Dempsey: Fears of poll battering not a factor in retirement decision

Transport Minister Noel Dempsey tonight denied he feared a backlash from angry voters in the general election as he became the second Fianna Fáil heavyweight not to contest the poll.

The veteran Meath TD claimed he always planned to stand down after reaching the age of 55 but those close to him said he wanted to remain in office for the last two years in a bid to help improve the country’s economic difficulties.