Labour's McManus to quit Dail seat
Liz McManus TD (left) has announced she will quit her seat in the Dail at the next general election
Friday September 03 2010
Labour TD Liz McManus as announced she will quit the Dail at the next election.
The Wicklow representative, who has been in politics for 31 years, said she is stepping aside to let new candidates through.
The 63-year-old said she hoped the move will help Labour secure two seats in the county at the next general election.
"I believe, however, that it is vital that Labour offers new, younger candidates to the electorate at the next general election," Ms McManus said.
"Our determination must be to win two seats in Co Wicklow. With the right candidates and a strong campaign we can 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."
Ms McManus is the second female TD in the last week to announce she is leaving frontline politics. Laois-Offaly TD Olwyn Enright said she is bowing out to spend more time with her family.
The Dail has just 23 women out of 166 seats.
Ms McManus said she will continue as an active member of the Labour Party, adding: "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 Co Wicklow. I look forward to working with you to meet that challenge."
Ms McManus served on Bray and Wicklow councils and secured a Dail seat in 1992.
Press Association
