Clare Fianna Fail TD and Minister for Defence, Tony Killeen will NOT be contesting the general election.
Despite recent assurances that he had intended to seek re-election to the next Dail, the Corofin native has confirmed to Clare FM that he has now decided to quit politics, based on recent medical tests following his cancer treatment last year.
Tony Killeen was treated for bowel cancer in 2009 and though he’s made a good recovery, his latest health checks have put an end to his general election plans.
The 58 year old former Kilnaboy Teacher and father of five said he has informed the Taoiseach of his decision and is deeply grateful to Brian Cowan for his backing particularly during his illness and cancer treatment.
Tony Killeen was a member of Clare County Council from 1985 to 1997 and was first elected to Dáil Eireann in 1992.
He was promoted to the rank of Junior Minister in 2004 working in the areas of Labour Affairs, Fisheries and Food and Environment and Energy in the various roles which followed before he reached the height of his career in March of last year as he was promoted to the Cabinet and appointed Minister for Defence.
His sudden decision not to contest the general election will leave a major void in the Fianna Fail line-up in Clare with questions now as to who the struggling party might find to hold onto his seat before the Fianna Fail selection convention on January 16th.
