CLARE Fine Gael TD Joe Carey has announced his resignation as a public representative.
Deputy Carey, who has been on sick leave since March of last year, confirmed he will not be a candidate in the next General Election.
Stating that his decision was based on medical advice, Deputy Carey informed Clare Fine Gael party members that he had to put himself, his wife and family first and retire from a job that he loved.
Deputy Carey said, “In the past year, I suffered a life-altering medical situation that I will be dealing with for the rest of my time on earth. While I would dearly wish to continue, my decision to step away is based on medical advice.
“I have had the absolute privilege to serve for the past 25years as a public representative, eight as a County Councillor and 17 as a TD. I want to express my sincere thanks to my constituents who elected me to represent them on Clare County Council and in Dáil Éireann on six separate occasions.”
In his letter to party members, Deputy Carey said he wanted to express his gratitude to them for campaigning with him throughout his political career.
“It is hard to believe but 25years have passed since I was first elected to Clare County Council. It has been the greatest honour and privilege to be elected as a Fine Gael TD for County Clare at four successive General Elections.
“My electoral success would not have been possible without your unwavering support. I also want to sincerely thank the extraordinary people who have worked with me in my office over the years especially Kathleen Fitzpatrick, Paul Bugler and Ger O’Halloran and, more recently, John Stanton and Lorraine O’Meara.
“A big thank you to my election team headed by my Director of Elections, Martin Lynch, and to everybody who canvassed, leaflet dropped, helped in the office, and with postering.”
He also expressed his appreciation to Clare Fine Gael members, local councillors past and present and the general public for their patience and understanding throughout his illness. He paid special tribute to his sister Leonora and brother Donal, the extended Carey family and his wide circle of friends.
“The Fine Gael parliamentary party have been really supportive as have Oireachtas members from all political parties and none. I have been blown away by the messages, cards, texts, mass bouquets and get-well wishes.
“I want to take this opportunity to wish Taoiseach, Simon Harris all the best in the forthcoming General Election. His impact has already been spectacular, and I strongly expect the “Harris Hop” to be firmly enjoyed in County Clare and throughout the Country when the next General Election comes around.”