AN Taoiseach Leo Varadkar was among 300 people in The Rose Hotel last night to celebrate the political life of a man who served Kerry in ministerial offices over the years.

Jimmy Deenihan, who retired from political life earlier this year, was feted by the Fine Gael party and the invited guests including many who canvassed with him, local councillors, party members and colleagues from cabinet over the years.

“Well, it’s a nostalgic occasion…a bit earlier than when I’d have liked it to be!” Jimmy told TraleeToday.ie prior to going into the Lee Suite, where the guests would enjoy a meal and entertainment.

Continued below…

“I really appreciate the fact that the party went to so much trouble to organise such a big event and it gives me an opportunity to thank members who canvassed with me over the years and who stuck their necks out for the party and for me,” he said.

He was also happy to see many of his ministerial colleagues from over the years down for the occasion.

“I’m delighted that they’re down here as they’re all close friends of mine and it’s important for me that they’re here. And of course the Taoiseach coming here is also very important,”  said Jimmy, who received presentations on the night for his years of service.

Continued below…

Having served as a Senator from 1983 to 1987, as well as being a TD for north Kerry from 1987 to 2016, Jimmy Deenihan served as Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry from 1994 to 1997, Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht from 2011 to 2014 and Minister of State for the Diaspora from 2014 to 2016.  Scroll down for photos…