Former TD comes out of retirement to fill son's vacated Cork City Council seat

Recently elected TD for Cork North Central Ken O’Flynn has announced that his father is to fill his council seat following his election to the Dáil.

Ken O’Flynn said: “Independent Ireland is pleased to announce that former TD Noel O’Flynn will be our official nominee for the recently vacated seat on Cork City Council,” in the Cork City North East Ward.

“With a distinguished career dedicated to public service, we are confident that Noel’s return will bring invaluable experience and insight to our local governance.” 

Noel O’Flynn's return to council comes following a nearly 14 year retirement - he served on the Cork City Council beginning in 1991 followed by his election to Dáil Éireann, where he served until his retirement in 2011 – he served as a member of Fianna Fáil prior to his retirement, a party his son Ken was also a member of before becoming an independent then a member of Independent Ireland.

Ken said: “Throughout his career, Noel has demonstrated unwavering commitment to the people of Cork, advocating for community development and advancing important local issues.

“His wealth of experience, combined with a deep understanding of the needs and aspirations of Cork’s residents, uniquely positions him to make significant contributions to the city’s ongoing development.

“We believe his tremendous skill set will be an asset to the Council as it addresses current challenges and seeks to enhance the quality of life for all citizens,” he added.

“Independent Ireland is excited about this new chapter and looks forward to working with Noel O’Flynn as he re-engages with the community and brings his vision for a thriving Cork to fruition. We believe it will set a positive course for the future of Cork City.” 

Mr O’Flynn’s council seat is the first of two to be filled, with Social Democrats' Pádraig Rice also elected this weekend.