Shock as Fine Gael deputy leader Heather Humphreys says she will not contest election

Heather Humphreys' decision brings to 18 the number of Fine Gael’s 35 TDs elected in 2020 who will not be contesting the election

Heather Humphreys was first elected to the Dáil in 2011, confirmed her decision not to seek re-election, saying "time catches up on us all". Picture: Sam Boal/Collins Photo

Heather Humphreys, the Minister for Social Protection and deputy leader of Fine Gael, will not contest the next general election.

In a shock announcement on Saturday night, the 64-year-old Cavan/Monaghan TD, who was first elected to the Dáil in 2011, confirmed her decision not to seek re-election, saying "time catches up on us all".