Statement by Brendan Howlin T.D.
“I wish today to inform my constituents in Wexford and the broader Labour family that having served as an elected member of Dáil Éireann continuously since 1987, I will not be contesting the next General Election.
“It has been and remains the privilege of my life to have represented my beloved Wexford in nine consecutive Dáileanna. I am forever grateful for the support I have received for almost four decades from the Wexford people and the wonderful members of the Labour Party. I remember those friends and comrades who have passed on down the years whose loyalty and fellowship I will always treasure.
“I have been most fortunate to have held many public offices. I have been Leader and Deputy Leader of my party. I have served as a Cabinet Minister in three governments and witnessed the positive transformation of our country, both economically and culturally. I have had the opportunity to introduce into law many important and transformative pieces of legislation.
“I am aware that the business of government and public representation is never done. We still have many major challenges to overcome as a people – providing houses for all, eliminating poverty and creating true equality.
“After the next General Election that task will fall to others. For my part I will continue to work to the best of my ability for all Wexford people. I will also do all that I can to ensure that our great county continues to be served by a Labour TD in the decades to come.”