FORMER government minister and North Kerry TD, Jimmy Deenihan, has confirmed he will not run in the next general election and has retired from politics.

He made the announcement on Radio Kerry’s ‘Kerry Today’ programme this morning.

“It was a considered decision. I look back over my career with a lot of pride and sense of achievement,” Mr Deenihan told host Jerry O’Sullivan.

Continued below…

“I was reflecting on my achievements over the years and they were many. I certainly think I repaid the confidence that the people of north Kerry showed in me.”

“I think it’s time for Fine Gael in north Kerry to get new people, to get new energy into the party. I developed a great organisation in north Kerry. We had some really great results both at national and local level. I just think it’s time for another standard bearer to take on that responsibility. I gave it 24/7. I’m satisfied that I gave politics and the people of Kerry 100% over the past 33 years.”

However, Mr Deenihan is still active in the community and intends to stay so.

“I’m going to continue to work for the community and the people of Kerry. I did get a big vote in the last election and I don’t want to leave them down either. I’m involved in many organisations including the Kerry Recreation and Sports Partnership,” he said.