Joe Carey, the Fine Gael representative for Clare, has declared his departure from political service due to severe health concerns. Since March 2023, Carey has been grappling with sickness and as a result, has decided not to run in the imminent general election. He stated that this decision was rooted in medical guidance.
At 49 years old, Carey has communicated his situation to the constituents of Clare, emphasising the need to prioritise his own welfare, as well as the wellbeing of his wife, Grace, and his two children. He attributed these factors as significant contributors to his retirement, a tough decision considering his profound love for the job.
Acknowledging his condition as a significant change in his life trajectory, Carey expressed his desire to continue his political journey but had to step aside following the advice of his medical team. He reflected on his illustrious 25 years of public service, encompassing eight years as a county councillor and 17 years as a TD.
Being the 15th out of 33 Fine Gael Deputies elected in 2020 to declare non-participation in the upcoming general election, Carey carries on a distinct political lineage. His father, Donal Carey, was a dedicated Senator and TD for Clare until his loss in the 2002 general election. Joe himself was first elected in the 2007 general election and successfully held onto his seat in the subsequent three elections.
Mr. Carey’s sister, Leonora, currently an occupational therapist in Limerick, has verified her intention to seek party nomination and become a candidate. The Clare selection convention is scheduled to occur on 6th September. Carey extended his gratitude to his family and party leader, Taoiseach Simon Harris, for their unwavering support during his illness. His most recent public engagement was as a special guest of Simon Harris and Dublin Lord Mayor James Geoghegan, at the All Ireland hurling final where Clare emerged victorious over Cork.
During his tenure in parliament, Mr Carey participated in various committees and fulfilled the role of deputy Government chief whip in the administration spanning 2011 to 2016. Until March 2023 when his health deteriorated, he presided over the Oireachtas Committee on Transport beginning 2022.
His sister, Leonora Carey, has a longstanding association with the party and has chaired the national executive committee of the party.
Following her brother’s declaration, she promptly issued a statement indicating that she recognises the need for fresh political strategies which will positively impact Clare and Midwest inhabitants. In the subsequent weeks, she plans on interacting with party loyalists to explore the possibility of bringing about meaningful change.
A party associate from Clare, Senator Martin Conway, remarked on the honour he felt working alongside Joe Carey for a span of two decades, praising him as a passionate representative of Clare residents.
Furthermore, Conway stood as a candidate for the Fine Gael party in Clare during the 2020 election.