Replacement announced by retiring Laois Labour county councillor
A Laois county councillor who is retiring early on health grounds has revealed that his wife is stepping up to the plate to take his seat.
Cllr Noel Tuohy, dad to Australian footballing star Zach Tuohy, served at his last council meeting on January 30.
The Labour party councillor who represents the Portlaoise Municipal District, is retiring early to continue with treatment for Parkinson's Disease.
He has confirmed that his wife Marie has agreed to be co-opted into his seat.
Marie Tuohy is a familiar face to many in Portlaoise, having worked at Portlaoise Leisure Centre for many years before it shut and reopened.
The co-option will mean that Portlaoise Municipal District will have a majority of female councillors, taking four out of the seven seats, including Cathaoirleach Cllr Thomasina Connell, Cllr Catherine Fitzgerald and Cllr Caroline Dwane Stanley.
"As you are probably aware I had to retire on health grounds from my Council Seat. Following last night's co option process Marie has been asked to carry the torch. Marie will be putting up contact details etc in the next few days.
"Thank you for all your support for the last 9 years for myself and I look forward to your continued support for Marie. Thank you all again from myself and my family," he said on social media.