'I know it’s the right call to step away' - Outgoing Kilkenny councillor

Cllr Patrick O’Neill, who did not seek re-election this time round, took to social media at the weekend to thank everyone who supported him in his 10 years as a Councillor.

"It has been a huge honour to represent my local area for so long and I can’t thank enough the people who put their faith in me across both elections," he said.

"The last couple of years have been difficult to balance everything between work, farm, politics and more importantly family. I haven’t been doing the job to the best of my ability and I know it’s the right call to step away.

WATCH PATRICK O'NEILL'S FULL INTERVIEW HERE

"The 10 years have been full of highs and lows; I met many wonderful people and learned so many things. Being a politician nowadays is not easy but a very fulfilling role when you work hard and see positive change in people’s lives and the communities you represent. There are often times when we don’t get things right but nobody enters politics to try and do wrong by people.

"To my family, friends, canvassers and campaigners I couldn’t have done it without you all, Thanks again for your support throughout the years. It’s been a privilege."