Former Housing Minister Eoghan Murphy has resigned as a TD.
Mr Murphy wrote to the Ceann Comhairle of the Dáil this morning to confirm he's stepping down.
He said he leaving as a TD, but will remain involved in politics to pursue a career in the area of international co-operation, human rights and democracy.
In a letter to Fine Gael members in Dublin Bay South he thanked local members for their support over the years.
Today I have resigned my position as Teachta Dála for @FineGael. I want to thank everyone who has supported me over the past twelve years in my positions as Councillor, TD and Minister.
Full statement here - https://t.co/kJMDL47qNT
— Eoghan Murphy TD (@MurphyEoghan) April 27, 2021
He admitted his time as Housing Minister was the most challenging he faced during his career in politics.
Some in Fine Gael HQ are not completely surprised at the move, feeling Eoghan Murphy had lost his love for politics during that difficult time in housing.
The move sets up an intriguing by-election in Dublin Bay South.
The vote will likely be held towards the end of November and former TD Kate O'Connell emerges immediately as a serious candidate.
All eyes will also be on the Green Party's Hazel Chu, who's a councillor in the area, a constituency that's also home to her party leader Eamon Ryan.
