Transport Minister Noel Dempsey to step down at next election

Fianna Fáil minister Noel Dempsey has announced that he will not stand for election in the 2011 General Election.

He released a statement on Friday thanking his family for their support. He has been a Fianna Fáil representitive, either at a local or national level, for more than three decades.

Before stepping down, however the Meath TD will have to contend, as Minister for Transport, with what looks like being a particularly bad winter for motorists.

“Today I am announcing that I will not seek a nomination to run in the next General Election following 33 years as a public representative," the announcement read.

"I sincerely thank the people of Meath for their support over three decades. I also want to say a heartfelt thank you to my close and extended family and the many dedicated and committed members of Fianna Fail in Meath who canvassed for me in all of the elections over the years.

"Everybody who worked with me and supported me over the years can share in the credit of our achievements. Whatever I achieved over the past 33 years of public life I have achieved with their support and guidance.

"It has been an honour and a privilege to serve the people of Meath as a Councillor and a T.D. and to serve my country as a Minister. I intend to continue to work hard for my constituency and the country up until the next election.”

Minister Dempsey's announcement comes hot on the heels of a similar one by fellow cabinet minister Dermot Ahern who will also quit the Dáil at the next election.

Noel Dempsey was born in Trim, Co Meath, one of 12 brothers and will turn 58 in the New Year. He and his wife Bernadette have four children.