Laois MEP has surgery in Dublin after cardiac scare

MEP Laois and the Midlands and former Laois Offaly TD Barry Cowen had to have surgery in Dublin after suffering a heart scare.  

In a statement, Mr Cowen said he underwent a surgical procedure in St James's Hospital in Dublin on Monday, April 7 having first attended the Emergency Department at the Midland Regional Hospital Tullamore. 

The statement obtained by the Leinster Express / Laois Live says that having felt unwell while attending the European Parliament in Strasbourg last week, his symptoms persisted after returning home.

"I attended the emergency department at Tullamore hospital on Saturday night and was subsequently transferred to the cardiac care unit at St James’s Hospital on Sunday. I underwent a surgical procedure there on Monday.

"I am now receiving further care to support my recovery and hope to return home via Tullamore Hospital over the weekend. I am hugely indebted to the professionalism and compassion of all the staff in both Tullamore and St. James’s hospitals.

"I will continue my recovery at home and will remain in close contact with my team as I carry out my duties as MEP for Midlands North-West. My offices remain fully operational, and should you require any assistance, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

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"My family and I are deeply grateful for all the kind messages and good wishes we have received – thank you sincerely," he said.

Many people have left well wishes on the post on Facebook wishing Mr Cowen a speedy recovery. 

The Clara native was Laois Offaly TD between 2011 and 2016 and again between 2020 and 2024 when he was elected to the European Parliament as an MEP for Midlands North West.

His brother and former Taoiseach Brian Cowen suffered a serious health setback after stepping away from politics.