Fine Gael TD Fergus O'Dowd confirms he will not contest next election

Fine Gael TD Fergus O'Dowd has confirmed he will stand down at the next General Election.

Mr O'Dowd, who represents the Louth and East-Meath constituency, said it has been an "honour and privilege" to represent his constituents during his time as an elected representative.

He has spent time in both Houses of the Oireachtas, first becoming a Senator before securing a seat in the Dáil in the 2002 General Election. He had also previously served as a councillor and as Mayor of Drogheda.

In a statement on Monday evening, the former minister of State said: "Throughout my working life I have enjoyed the heartfelt support of the people of my constituency.

"I have deeply appreciated their loyalty and goodwill which made my job representing them all that more satisfying."

He also thanked his wife Agnes, his sons, Vincent, Donal and Garrett, and his six grandchildren.

"To my colleagues in Leinster House of whatever political persuasion, I say thank you for the many friendships and commitments forged to building a better Ireland for everyone," Mr O'Dowd said.

Commenting on the news, Fine Gael leader, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said Mr O'Dowd's voice "will be missed in the next Dáil", adding that his party colleague "has been a powerful advocate for the rights of older people".

"He is driven by a deep sense of justice, and I know that while he will not be in the next parliamentary party, he will continue to work and campaign on these issues, and I hope I will still be able to work with him on them in some way," the Taoiseach added.