Ceann Comhairle Seán Ó Fearghaíl To Step Down As Dáil Chair, Returning To Fianna Fáil Backbenches

Tuesday, 29 October 2024 08:39

By Martin Osborne

The next Dáil will have a new Ceann Comhairle.

Ceann Comhairle Seán Ó Fearghaíl will vacate his seat as chair of the Dáil and return to the Fianna Fáil backbenches after the general election following successful treatment for cancer.

He will be automatically returned to the 34th Dáil as a member for Kildare South.

The next Dáil will have a new Ceann Comhairle.

Speaking to the Irish Independent, he said: “Two-and-a-half years ago, I was diagnosed with prostate cancer, which required radical surgery. At that time, and in the aftermath, I thought about retirement, being unsure about what my health prospects might be."

"Two-and-a-half years later, I am cancer-free, and while I have some other relatively minor medical problems, I am feeling good – and I am certain that I have more miles in the tank."

He added: “Therefore, having consulted with my family and friends and supporters, and having regard to Article 16 of the Constitution, I have decided that it would be a very great honour to continue to represent the people of South Kildare in Dáil Éireann, and to contribute to the public interest in whatever way I can.”

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