Don O'Leary to resign
Sinn Féin Councillor Don O'Leary this week announced with regret his intention to resign his seat on Cork Corporation seat because of ill-health.
In an open letter to constituents and supporters, O'Leary said: ``As many are aware, I have been seriously ill since the election last May. Despite a number of attempts at getting back involved with constituency work, it is clear that my health is not up to it.
``I have therefore decided to resign from my seat on the Corporation and spend the next few years rebuilding my health.''
O'Leary expressed his regret at having to resign at what he termed ``an exciting time for Irish republicanism''. However, he also reaffirmed his intention to continue to support Sinn Féin's efforts to build the party in Cork and further the peace process, in whatever capacity possible.
O'Leary asked the members of Cork Corporation to co-opt party colleague Jonathan O'Brien in his place. ``Jonathan has been active on the north side of the city with me over the past few years,'' Don said. O'Brien, a founding member of Ógra Shinn Féin in Cork, lives with his young family in the Cork North West ward. He has also played a prominent role in the development of the local Concerned Communities Against Drugs organisation in the city. ``His republican politics are rooted in the community and he is more than capable of serving the constituents of Cork North West and Cork Corporation,'' said O'Leary.
Jonathan expressed his hope that his predecessor will regain his health as quickly as possible. ``I regret the circumstances in which this has come about,'' he said, as he confirmed his commitment to try to emulate the conviction shown by Don O'Leary. ``I welcome the opportunity to represent the North West ward. I hope to give our people a strong voice on Cork Corporation,'' he said.
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