Taoiseach leads tributes as 'one of Mayo’s finest' announces retirement

TAOISEACH and Fine Gael leader Simon Harris has led tributes to his party colleague Deputy Michael Ring who has announced he is to retire from politics at the next general election.

Ring has given distinguished service as a TD for the past 30 years, with the Taoiseach noting his work ethic and belief in rural Ireland.

In a statement, Mr. Harris said: “Michael Ring has been a remarkable politician of national importance and representative of his beloved county Mayo.

“Though fiercely loyal to the west, he is known all over this country for his work ethic, his effectiveness, his deep-rooted connection with his constituents and his ability to communicate with wit and charm like no other politician of his generation.

“Michael has had a long and distinguished career representing the Fine Gael party for five decades. He has served as an elected representative for 45 years, first starting out on Westport Urban Council, then Mayo County Council and for the past 30 years in Dáil Éireann.

“He served as the first ever Minister for Community and Rural Development, championing the voice of rural Ireland and ensuring it was always heard in the corridors of power.

“He also served as Minister of State for Tourism and Sport and Minister for Regional Economic Development.

“Michael got involved in politics to help people and nothing was ever more important to him than the people of Mayo, which led him to secure significant investments for his county.

“He has never wavered in his belief in rural Ireland and his constituents never doubted his ability to get things done. His legacy is evident to us all as we travel around the Wild Atlantic Way and Ireland's Ancient East.

“Indeed, Michael Ring will go down in history as one of this country’s best loved and most effective local representatives who made waves on the national stage.

“As a colleague, he will be sorely missed in the halls of Leinster House.

“I hope it is a long and happy retirement and that we continue to benefit from his knowledge, humour and compassion.

“To one of Mayo’s finest, I say thank you.”

His FG Dáil colleague in Mayo, Minister of State Alan Dillon, commented on Ring's legacy in his home county.

He said: “As a colleague, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Michael for his outstanding contributions throughout his distinguished political career. Michael has been a brilliant TD, minister and representative for Mayo, consistently championing rural and community development.

“Michael’s departure will be a significant loss to Fine Gael, to public life and marks the end of an era. He has certainly earned a well-deserved retirement with his wife Anne and family.

“Michael’s career is a testament to his tireless work ethic and years of sacrifice. His dedication has left an indelible mark on our county, and his achievements will be remembered for years to come.”

He continued: “On a personal note, Michael has been an invaluable mentor, trusted friend, and supportive colleague. I have always valued his guidance and advice and am deeply grateful for the knowledge he has shared. We have worked on numerous projects to improve our constituents’ lives, and I look forward to continuing to work alongside him during his remaining time in the Oireachtas.”

Fianna Fáil Minister of State Dara Calleary, in extending his good wishes, said Michael Ring 'rewrote the perceived certainties of Mayo politics'.

He said: “Through his absolute commitment to service , his tenaciousness, and his fearlessness he delivered to Mayo and to Ireland as a deputy and a minister but he especially delivered for countless thousands of Mayo people over his many decades of public service.

“He was a tough electoral opponent but it was a pleasure and an honour to work with him on many shared projects.

“Siobhan joins with me in wishing Michael - and especially his fantastic wife Ann and their family - every health and happiness in the next chapter of their lives.”

Westport Fianna Fáil Councillor Brendan Mulroy said Michael Ring has been one of the best politicians this country has ever produced, and a fantastic representative for Westport and Mayo. “His hard work and commitment to the job is there for all to see,” he said.

On a personal level, he said, Michael has been a great friend, support and help to him during his own political career.

Councillor Mulroy added: “The people of Westport and Mayo have a lot to thank Michael for. A lot of tributes will be paid in the coming hours to Michael and all will be richly deserved. People like Michael Ring only come around every so often and we were lucky to have a representative of the calibre of Michael."

Mayo Fine Gael has also paid tribute. In a statement, Jim Higgins, chairperson of the Mayo Constituency Executive, reflected on Ring's impactful career, stating: “Michael's dedication to the people of Mayo and rural Ireland is unparalleled. Working alongside our former Taoiseach Enda Kenny, his tireless work and commitment have brought significant developments to our community, from the revitalisation of tourism through initiatives like the Wild Atlantic Way to the establishment of crucial infrastructure projects.

“His leadership and vision have left an indelible mark on Mayo and beyond.”

Mr. Higgins added: “Michael's legacy will be felt for generations. His contributions to community development and rural Ireland have set a high standard for public service.

“We thank him, his wife Ann and their family for their unwavering dedication and wish Michael a fulfilling and happy retirement.”