'Politicians are human too'

Minister Humphreys to step down as Deputy Leader of Fine Gael

Cavan Monaghan TD Heather Humphreys has announced that she will not seek re-election in the upcoming general election and will step down as Deputy Leader of Fine Gael.

Speaking on her decision Minister Humphreys said: "As I get older, my health and energy levels are not what they were and I know going forward that I would not be able to give the job the time and commitment it deserves.

“Politicians are human too, we give all we can for as long as we can but time catches up on us all."

Speaking on the looming election, she said: "We will retain our seat in Cavan-Monaghan and push very strongly for a second Fine Gael seat in this constituency.

"I will work day and night with our candidates to achieve this goal so that we can return Simon Harris to the office of Taoiseach."

Minister Humphreys looked to the success of her party in local elections in Cavan and Monaghan, which saw Fine Gael become "the largest party in local government across the two counties."

"The talent is here locally and now is the right time to make way for the next generation to take up the mantle," she said.

“I want to thank the people of Cavan and Monaghan for putting their trust in me and electing me to Dáil Eireann. It has been the greatest honour of my life to represent you."

Minister Humphreys has been a public representative for the past 21 years, as a Councillor, TD and Minister. She said she has "always enjoyed the job" and "looked forward to coming to work every day."

She reminiced on her time "leading the 2016 Commemorations, supporting businesses through the Covid-19 pandemic, enacting legislation for Auto Enrolment and Pay Related Benefit, rolling out Hot Meals to all Primary schools or supporting our rural communities.

“I want to thank the people of Cavan and Monaghan for putting their trust in me and electing me to Dáil Eireann.

"It has been the greatest honour of my life to represent you.

Minister Humphreys also thanked her family for their support.

"While I chose to enter politics, my family did not," she said.

"The stress, strain and time away from home takes its toll on everybody.

"I really am looking forward to spending more time with you and particularly my two beautiful little grandchildren," she concluded.