The Minister for State for Training, Skills, Innovation, Research and Development, John Halligan has announced that he will not stand in the upcoming General Election.
Halligan who has spent over 30 years in politics confirmed the news via a Facebook post saying: I have decided not to contest the upcoming General Election and will retire from political life.
Explaining his decision Halligan said he has decided to “devote more time to my family – my wife, children and grandchildren – all of whom have been an unfailing support to me”.
He added: “It has truly been a profound honour to represent the people of Waterford at both local and national level throughout my career. I have served every single day in public office fighting for what I believed was right and working with determination on behalf of my constituents.”