Martin: Cassells has made an 'outstanding contribution to politics'
Tanaiste Micheal Martin has hailed the contribution to politics over the past 25 years of Senator Shane Cassells who yesterday announced he was quitting politics.
Mr Martin joined the many tributes to the former councillor and TD, praising the role he played as a public representative in Navan and for the constituents of Meath West.
"I want to pay tribute to Shane for his outstanding contribution to politics over the past 25 years - as a councillor, a TD and a senator.
"Shane is an extremely hard working and committed Meath man and has delivered a lot for his county and town of Navan.
"I spoke to Shane, and I have a lot of respect and admiration for Shane’s work over the years but I fully understand his reasons for wanting to move on to a new chapter in his life.
"Shane is also a deeply committed sports person, we’ve had great banter over the years about the fortunes of Cork and Meath Football and no doubt that will continue. But I wish him every success into the future at whatever he does next.
Meath East TD and local Minister Thomas Byrne also paid tribute to his party colleague.
“Shane Cassells has been a fantastic colleague and friend to me since I was first elected in 2007. I have always valued his advice and support over the year," said Minister Byrne.
“He has been a first class public representative and champion for the people of his hometown of Navan and the wider Meath West constituency.
“On behalf of the Fianna Fáil family in county Meath, I want to thank Shane for his commitment and dedication to our party over his career. I wish him the very best in the future.
Cllr Padraig Fitzsimons described Senator Cassells as a "fantastic ambassador for Navan" who will be sadly missed.
"He gave great service to Navan and was the epitome of what a good politician should be.
"His contribution to politics and community in Navan and Meath was one of the best.
"I will miss him as a friend and colleague."
"I'd like to wish Shane and his family the best for the future," he said.
Aontu's Deputy Peadar Tóibín said he was disappointed to hear Senator Cassells was not running in the forthcoming election.
"He has given significant service for more than 20 years to the people of Meath.
"He is a strong Navan man and always tried to represent the people of Meath to the best he could. Leinster House will be a poorer place without him.
"The news came as a shock. I wish him and is family well."