Labour's McManus Bows Won't Seek Re-Election

The Labour Party's Wicklow TD has announced she will not seek re-election at the next election, in order to pave the way for younger candidates.

In a statement released this morning, Deputy Liz McManus said that although it was a "privilege" to serve the Labour party for the past 31 years, she had decided to not put her name forward for the election due in 2012.

"I will continue to [work] to the best of my ability until the next General Election," she said, adding: "I believe, however, that it is vital that Labour offers new, younger candidates to the electorate at the next General Election."

Ms McManus, who was born in 1947 in Montreal, Canada, said that the party's determination must be to win two seats in Wicklow and that with the right candidates and a strong campaign they could achieve that goal.

"So I have decided not to put my name forward for nomination at the selection convention to be held later this year," she said.

Ms McManus added that after retiring as a TD at the next Election, she intended to continue as an active member of the Labour Party.

"We are steadily growing support for our party and for our leader Eamon Gilmore TD. Our success is a great tribute to the work put in by Labour members here in Co. Wicklow," she said.

Ms McManus added: "Ireland is crying out for a fresh start and a new beginning. For many people, times are hard; unemployment and poverty are on the rise. Our society needs a strong and powerful Labour presence in Government. With hard work and dedication, together, we can achieve a great result for County Wicklow."

The Labour TD added that she appreciated the support she had received over the past 3 years from the people of Wicklow and most of all from the members of the Labour Party in the county.

Ms McManus is currently the Labour Party spokesperson on Communications, Energy and Natural Resources.

(DW/KMcA)