Long-serving Fine Gael TD and former Minister Richard Bruton will not contest the next general election, he has confirmed.
Speaking at a Fine Gael Dublin Bay North meeting tonight the TD, who was first elected in 1982, thanked voters for "the trust you have shown in me to serve as your local TD for the past 41 years".
Mr Bruton, who is the chairman of the Fine Gael parliamentary party, is a former deputy leader of the party and served in several Cabinet roles, including most recently as Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, from 2018 to 2020.
Prior to taking up that position he had been Minister for Education.
He was elected on the tenth count in the five seat Dublin Bay North constituency in 2020.
Richard Bruton, who turned 70 last March, unsuccessfully led a heave against Fine Gael Leader Enda Kenny in 2010.
He is the brother of former Taoiseach John Bruton.
Speaking to colleagues tonight he said: "It has been a privilege to get the chance to represent you on the Council, in the Dáil, and in cabinet. I will continue to work hard for you up to the end of this Dáil term.
"I would like to thank all those who have helped me in my work throughout my career, particularly my family, my friends, and Fine Gael members. That loyalty means so much to me. However, this is the right time, as new constituencies are forming, to give others the chance to take on the role.
"I have been so lucky to be given the chance to hold office under four different Taoisigh, and to be part of some major changes in Irish society. Ireland has made huge strides in that time.
"As I announce my departure from politics, I would encourage anyone with an interest in public life to consider putting their name forward for election. There are many important reforms which only politics can deliver."
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar commended Deputy Bruton and said that he would be a "big loss to his community come the next election".
He said: "He has achieved a huge amount and I wish him and his family all the very best for the future."
