Statement on Norris announcement

2 August 2011

by Cllr Joe Costello

I wish to acknowledge the decision by Senator David Norris to bow out of the presidential race, a decision that has come at the end of what has been particularly difficult few days for him.

Notwithstanding the recent controversy, it is right that we recognise the significant contribution that Senator Norris has made to public life in Ireland and abroad, as a legislator, campaigner and scholar.

As a public representative who shares a constituency with David Norris, a man for whom I have considerable admiration, I regret that he will not have the opportunity of going before the people in the presidential election.

I hope that his decision today, draws a line under this matter and that the focus can now return to debate on the issues, the vision and the ideas that are at the core of the presidential election campaign.