BREAKING - Champion of Kilkenny people is retiring from politics after great career

The man with the safest seat in Irish local politics has decided to call it a day.

Cllr Maurice Shortall of the Labour Party has topped the poll at the local elections in 2004, 2009 and 2016. A record that is unlikely to be equaled.

The 65-year-old has given incredible service to the people of Castlecomer, north Kilkenny and the county in general in that time.

Never one to hog the headlines, he worked tirelessly behind the scenes for his constituents.

He leaves his home town in a much better state than when he entered politics with a new 40 bedroom hotel about to open in Castlecomer and the Discovery Park booming. A sense of optimism has enveloped the town with a Michelin star chef opening a new restaurant there soon and many other smaller initiatives in place which have brought jobs and hope to the  place.

A committed hard worker for constituents over the past 15 years, he served as Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council 2005-2006; Leas Cathaoirleach 2012-2013; SPC Chairman (Forward Planning 2009-2014); SPC Chairman (Environment & Water Services 2009- 2012); Corporate Policy Group (2005-2006 ; 2004 -2012).

"From the bottom of my heart I wish to say a big thank you to all who supported and assisted and made it possible for me to serve as a member of Kilkenny County Council for three terms." Cllr Shortall said.                                                     

Speaking exclusively to the Kilkenny People Cllr Shortall said the decision had not been easy but felt that the time was right for him to go. As the chapter closes on his time as a local public representative new challenge lies ahead but one thing is sure that same 100% commitment will be there.