Leo Varadkar is Fine Gael's latest departure. Who else is stepping down?
Leo Varadkar. Picture: Damien Storan/PA
Leo Varadkar's shock resignation as Fine Gael leader is the latest in a string of party TDs announcing they are stepping.
Here's who is on that list, and what they said about their decision.
“The reason for this is a simple one. I have three children and, as they grow older, I want to be around more and available to them.”
“The reason for my decision is very straightforward, I want to be around my children for the remaining years of their childhood.”
Mr Phelan had a heart attack during the covid-19 pandemic. “Once I regained consciousness that day, a doctor asked about my work, lifestyle and the need to remove stress from my life and change how I lived. When I told him my job we both laughed.”
“Politics by its nature requires renewal and it’s time for me to move on.”
“You have to be realistic, you can’t keep going this way into your 70s.”
“This is the right time, as new constituencies are forming, to give others the chance to take on the role.”
“It is now 36 years since I was first elected. Between my father Oliver J and myself that’s 80 years of public service. It’s time to pass the baton to a younger generation.”
“It has been an honour and privilege to represent the people of the Louth & East Meath constituency for a total of 50 years as an elected representative.”
“Now is the right time for me and my family.”
“After 20 years in any role, I think you begin to reach a point where you’ve given all you can give.”
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