It has been revealed this morning that The Labour Party’s agriculture spokesperson, Willie Penrose, has decided not to contest the next general election.

Representing the Longford-Westmeath constituency, Penrose also holds the position of chairperson of the parliamentary party.

Deputy Penrose was first elected to the Dail in November, 1992; prior to his election, The Labour Party had not had a seat in Westmeath since 1927.

He also previously served on Westmeath County Council.

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Commenting on today’s announcement, the leader of The Labour Party, Brendan Howlin, said: “Today a stalwart of Labour has announced he is not contesting the next election.

The people of Longford-Westmeath and the people of Ireland owe Willie Penrose a debt of gratitude for his integrity, commitment and passion in advancing the rights of working people.

Deputy Penrose also currently holds a position on the Joint Committee on Agriculture, Food and the Marine.

During yesterday’s consultative conference on the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) – which was organised by the Department of Agriculture – in Newbridge, Co. Kildare – deputy Penrose called for a fairer distribution of direct payments to a small and medium-sized farmers.

He also believes that CAP reform could play a significant role in terms of generational renewal and that the Early Retirement Scheme should be reintroduced in Ireland.