Former Cabinet member Josepha Madigan has announced her decision to retreat from politics and resign from her ministerial position. She will be the 12th elected in 2020 to withdraw and the 11th Fine Gael TD not to run for re-election.
The representative of Dublin Rathdown took to social media to reveal her discussion with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar about not seeking re-election. The two have had several discussions on the topic, however, Madigan’s position is unchanged. She thanked Varadkar for giving her time to rethink her choice. The news came after Madigan was unable to secure a nomination for the Dublin seat in the forthcoming European elections.
In an unexpected move, Madigan voiced her support for Simon Harris as the successor of Fine Gael and Taoiseach. Believing that he will be an effective leader, she has given him her full backing for his new role. She mentioned her privilege of having worked with both Enda Kenny and Leo Varadkar, significant leaders of Fine Gael and Taoisigh.
Discussing the challenges of the political profession, Madigan commended those with resilience and the courage to participate in public life. She expressed the hope that such individuals will persist in contributing towards the enhancement of the nation and its population. Her ministerial departure renders a vacancy in the Cabinet, giving Harris an early opportunity in his term to fill the position.
Finally, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar expressed his recognition for Madigan’s dedication as a Fine Gael public representative.
“We initially crossed paths at a charity event for Strictly Come Dancing in South Dublin in 2015, where she was vying for a Dáil seat. My companion, Matt, was participating as a competitor while Shane Ross TD, an opposition member at the time, appeared as a judge. We got along splendidly and a friendship blossomed and has flourished since then. She stands out as one of the most caring and understanding politicians I’ve come across. Some perceive kindness as a flaw in the realm of politics, but I view it as one of her greatest attributes,” he remarked.
“I designated her as the Minister for Culture, Heritage & the Gaeltacht in 2017. She promptly initiated my strategy to multiply arts and culture spending twofold by the year 2024, which has been accomplished. In 2020, she stepped into the groundbreaking role of Minister of State for Special Education and Inclusion, controlling a budget exceeding a billion euros. This role was a collaborative creation between us. She has spearheaded major increases in funding for special education and inclusivity. The number of specialised classrooms and schools has expanded, and there are now more SNAs and dedicated teachers deployed in schools, all credit to her hard work. She has made it possible for numerous children to receive the optimal start in life.
“Josepha’s departure from the Dáil will be deeply felt. I wish her nothing but success as she embarks on a post-political chapter of her life,” he conveyed.