The former Taoiseach Enda Kenny has officially ended his political career after he informed his constituency and fellow Fine Gael delegates that he not be seeking another stint in the Dáil.
Mr Kenny who is the longest serving TD in the Dáil anounced the news before a party convention in Castlebar on Sunday evening.
In announcement Mr Kenny told the convention that he was honoured to receive the support of his fellow colleagues over the past 13 elections, but he stated the time is now right to end his long standing political career.
Mr Kenny’s decision which was widely expected comes as the party held a meeting to nominate the constituencies candidates for the next General Election.