Fine Gael TD for Donegal South East, Dinny McGinley, who has represented the constituency for 24 years, has this evening announced his decision not to contest the next general election.
Mr McGinley said: "This has not been an easy decision but I feel it is the right time to pass on the political torch.
He said: "At this time the Fine Gael Organisation in Donegal South West is in excellent condition to defend and win the seat that has been my privilege and honour to hold for almost 25 years."
Party leader Enda Kenney described Mr McGinley as an exceptionally talented man who worked tirelessly for the people of Donegal.
He said Mr McGinley was an outstanding Gaeltacht spokesman and a sterling ambassador for the Irish language, born out of his real passion for Irish.
"With Dinny McGinley's retirement, the people of Donegal are losing a true political champion," he added.