Elaine Keogh

Louth Fianna Fail deputy and former Ceann Comhairle Seamus Kirk will not contest the next general election.

His decision, which was made on health grounds, leaves the party having to campaign to retain his seat - as Mr Kirk was automatically deemed elected at the last general election.

In the last election the party failed to retain a second seat in Louth which had been held by former minister for justice Dermot Ahern prior to his retirement.

Speaking this morning Mr Kirk (69), who was first elected to the Dáil in 1987:

“I would like to run again but I would not physically be able for the campaign.”

He said based on this year’s local election results the party should be able to retain a seat in Louth.

Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams topped the poll in Louth at the last general election and it is expected the party will seek to secure two seats in the next election.

More to follow.