Sinn Féin President Mary Lou McDonald TD has paid tribute to colleague and friend Imelda Munster TD who has today announced that she will not contest the next general election.

Deputy McDonald has thanked Imelda for her massive contribution to Sinn Féin, and for her public service and leadership.

Teachta McDonald said:

“I want to sincerely thank Imelda for the massive contribution she has made to Sinn Féin locally and nationally, over two decades in public office and in over thirty-five years of political activism.

“Imelda has served with distinction as a member of the Dáil since 2016 and as a member of Louth County Council for twelve years prior to that.

“Imelda is immensely respected and loved in her native Drogheda, across Louth and beyond. It has been my pleasure and honour to serve alongside her for many years.

“Imelda’s ability to hold Ministers to account, her straight talking in Committees and her sharp intellect has earned her much respect across the political divide.

“Someone of her incredible talent and calibre will be sorely missed from our team in Leinster House, but I know that Imelda will remain a proud and committed member of Sinn Féin as we continue on our journey to a United Ireland. Her commitment to Drogheda and to County Louth will never, ever wane.

“Imelda’s family are the most important people in her life. I wish Imelda, Niall and all the family the very best of luck for the future. Ádh mór Imelda.”