THE decision of two high-profile Northside TDs not to contest the general election has thrown the race wide open for candidates bidding for a seat in the next Dáil.
In a hectic week politically, when Taoiseach Leo Varadkar called the election for February 8, Independent TDs Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North) and Maureen O’Sullivan (Dublin Central) announced they wouldn’t be seeking re-election.
Deputy McGrath’s decision, which came as a particular shock, could open the door for the Green Party or Labour to take one of the five seats in his constituency.
The Minister for Disabilities said he gave his decision careful consideration and believes it is the correct one for both himself and his family.
“I am far from retiring and will remain involved in political activism, supporting disability issues,” he vowed.
“I hope to spend time encouraging some of the 13 percent of Ireland’s population who have some form of disability to get involved in politics at a local or national level.
“I have successfully contested four Dáil elections and one city council election and my political record shows that I have been radical, pragmatic, open and always willing to take responsibility to serve my constituents.
“I am proud to have negotiated Programme for Government agreements with four different Taoisigh during my 21 years in public office from 1999 to 2020.”
Minister McGrath also challenged all political leaders to retain a Cabinet position for the Disabilities Ministry in any future government.
Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment Richard Bruton praised Minister McGrath after he made his announcement.
“I would like to wish my colleague Finian McGrath well,” said Minister Bruton who is also a TD for Dublin Bay North.
“He has served our constituents well and been great to work with in and out of government. His big heart, his playful personality, and his huge commitment enlivened many a cabinet meeting.”
Minister Bruton said that as the first ever Minister for Disabilities, Minister McGrath brought a real change to people’s lives.
“He was always a loyal colleague and at all times treated both supporters and opponents with fairness and respect,” he added.
Deputy O’Sullivan has been a TD for the Dublin Central constituency since 2009. After the death of Tony Gregory, she won the resulting by-election and held the seat in subsequent elections.
The Dublin Central constituency comprises three seats with Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe and Sinn Fein President Mary Lou McDonald the other two sitting TDs.
Minister Donohoe, paid tribute to Deputy O’Sullivan following her announcement.
“Maureen has been a constituency colleague of mine for almost 10 years and it would be harder to find a more principled and well regarded public representative,” he said.
“It has been a great privilege to work alongside her. I wish Maureen well in the next stage of her life.”
Separately, Labour have confirmed that Cllr Duncan Smith will be its candidate in the Dublin Fingal constituency.
It follows the announcement that sitting TD Brendan Ryan will not be seeking re-election.
Cllr Smith, who contested the by-election in the constituency in November, said it was an honour to take the torch for Labour from Deputy Ryan.
