Statement from Sean O Neachtain MEP

Sean O Neachtain MEP says that this decision was the toughest of my life but I had no option but to step down because of health concerns - Fianna Fail will still win the seat at the next European Parliament elections in the constituency of North and West -

Sean O Neachtain Fianna Fail MEP for the constituency of North and West has today announced that he will not be standing at the next European Parliament elections which will be held on June 5th 2009 next.

Sean O Neachtain MEP said that " this was the toughest decision of my life to take but on medical advice which I have received, I have been left with no option but to withdraw my name from this election contest.

I would like to take this opportunity of thanking all my supporters for the political backing which they have given me during many electoral contests.

I am proud of my record as an MEP. I have always sought to advance the needs of the less well off, protect our farming, fishing and rural communities and promote cultural and linguistic diversities.

My proudest achievement in Europe was leading the campaign to ensure that the Irish language became an official working language of the European Union.

My message to the voters of the constituency of North and West is 'now is the time to embrace the European Union. Taking an isolated approach to our relations in Europe will not serve our economic interests. The European Union is supporting Irish economic recovery through a number of different programmes.

I hope that the Irish people on June 5th next will send out a resounding message of support to candidates which fully support Ireland's membership of the European Union. Important decisions are being taken in Europe which positively affect our daily lives.

I believe that the Fianna Fail party will retain a seat in the European Parliament constituency of North and West. I wish Paschal Mooney, who was selected with me as a candidate in Castebar only on April 5th last every success during this election campaign. "