Fine Gael councillor Frank Kearney has announced that he is withdrawing from next month’s council elections to focus on his medical recovery.
Last year, the popular Lackagh-based councillor was diagnosed with serious illness and underwent a series of chemotherapy sessions.
He had hoped to be able to focus on his re-election to the chamber, but this week he admitted that he had received medical advice which suggested that running in the elections would hamper his recovery.
“While I was extremely confident that I would be able to retain my seat on Galway County Council, following discussions with the medical team I will have to return to chemotherapy again much earlier that was hoped.
“I have decided that it is in my best interest not to seek re-election as I now need to enjoy more time with family and hopefully be able to continue with a number of projects that I have been working on over many years.
“Following deep consideration, I have decided not to contest the forthcoming elections to Galway Co Council on May 24. I have been privileged to have been given the opportunity to serve on Galway County Council since 2014, having been elected as a Fine Gael councillor on my first attempt in what was one of the most difficult elections for Fine Gael,” he said.
He added that he wished to thank the people of the area for their support; and management and staff of Galway Co Council for their co-operation.
“The past year has been challenging having to combine local authority issues with medical issues and I am indebted to all who have provided such wonderful support and co-operation to me over that period of time.
“In the mid-sixties, I first became involved in both community work and with the Fine Gael party and over that time, I have been involved in many successful projects that came to fruition that have been of tremendous benefit to people and to communities.
“I have been lucky to have worked with some wonderful people. I wish to thank the many people who became part of our lives during my time working with them.
“I wish continued success to all who continue to carry out work on behalf of communities on a voluntary basis and my advice to people is don’t ever regret the times that is spent on this invaluable work. I will continue working on some local projects by my time as an official public representative will end on May 23,” he said.
