Fine Gael TD for Galway West Padraic McCormack has abandoned plans to retire from national politics next year and has agreed to a request from the party leader, Enda Kenny, to stand as a candidate in the forthcoming general election.
Mr McCormack, who has been a TD for the constituency since 1989, has agreed to run again because the candidate selected to replace him, councillor Brian Walsh, had pulled out of the contest for personal reasons.
"When I first announced before our convention that I would not seek re-election next year, it was with the belief that councillor Brian Walsh would be the replacement candidate. Brian was selected with councillors Seán Kyne and Fidelma Healy-Eames," Mr McCormack said yesterday.
He had made it clear at the time that he intended to continue his work as a TD for the people of Galway right up to election day. "Now that Brian has withdrawn his name, and after consulting with my family and the party organisation, I am pleased to say that I have informed the party leader that I am willing to contest the election.
"Before taking this decision, I had allowed time for the party to explore all options and see if other candidates were available. I know this was a big decision but I am still enthusiastic about the job and I have the experience to know the commitment required from my 17 years as a TD," Mr McCormack added.
"I feel I have a serious role to play in the election and I believe I have a contribution to make as a Dáil deputy for Galway city and county. I am eagerly looking forward to the campaign and I am confident that as a team with Seán, Fidelma and myself, we have a balance of youth, gender and experience and we will deliver the best result for Fine Gael."
Mr Kenny, expressed his delight at the Galway TD's decision to run again. "I welcome deputy Padraic McCormack's positive response to my request that he reconsider his decision on contesting the next general election."
He added that in his current role as Fine Gael deputy spokesperson on the environment, Mr McCormack had been a very effective and respected contributor to the work of the party in the Dáil and in several important Oireachtas committees.
"I am delighted at Padraic's addition to the Fine Gael election team and I believe that he, Fidelma and Seán will secure a great result in Galway West," Mr Kenny said.
Mr McCormack told The Irish Times: "We have always had three candidates in Galway West and Brian Walsh had to be replaced. I am very pleased that the party leader has shown the confidence in me and asked me to join the ticket. I am as enthusiastic as ever about being an election candidate."