Kilkenny TD proud of 'legacy' in government as 20 year run in politics ends

Former government minister and Carlow-Kilkenny TD, Malcom Noonan has claimed he has left a 'legacy for the people of Ireland that will stand the test of time'.

The Kilkenny TD lost his seat in count eight  on Sunday evening as the Green Party retained just one seat nationally in General Election 2024.

Mr Noonan, an established politician from Kilkenny City spent over 15 years as a county councillor and five as Minister for State and Electoral Reform. 

"While we are deeply disappointed that it hasn't worked out for us, we are immensely proud of everything we achieved over that time," Noonan commented.

FOR MORE GENERAL ELECTION NEWS, CLICK HERE

"I know in my heart that I have been an impactful Minister for nature (Ireland's first), heritage and electoral reform. I leave a legacy for the people of Ireland that will stand the test of time.

"I have also worked tirelessly for this constituency and our office led by Linda has made a real difference in the lives of people and for community and business interests that we represented," he added.

"It's not easy being the party that has to lead on the transformational change needed to future proof our country. These issues cannot be avoided or ignored by the next government and much of what we need to do is locked into law," Mr Noonan remarked.

"It has been an honour to have served the people of Kilkenny and this constituency. I wish the five TDs to be elected here all the very best and hope that honesty, hard work, co-operation and integrity will prevail among them for the common good."

The former Green Party TD also thanked his family and party colleagues for their support.

"Finally I'm thinking of my dad who thankfully saw me elected to Dáil Éireann before he departed. Not bad for a boy from Larchfield as he would say. Peace and Love to you all, cherish our precious democracy and be kind to each other," he concluded.