Francie Molloy not seeking re-election

VETERAN Sinn Féin MP Francie Molloy has confirmed that he will not be seeking re-election to Westminster, when the next general election is held.

Posting on social media this morning, the Mid Ulster representative said, “Representing Sinn Féin and the people of Mid Ulster for the past 39 years has been the greatest honour of my life.

“I pass on the baton to a new generation with confidence.

“It’s been a long road, but we’re almost there.”

Mr Molloy is one of Sinn Fein’s longest-serving elected representatives and has been MP for the Mid Ulster constituency since 2013.

He was first elected as a councillor in the 1980s and has also previously served as a Stormont assembly member.

First Minister Michelle O’Neill, a long-time friend and colleague of Mr Molloy, said he has made “a huge contribution to politics and the peace process in the North.”

“Francie was heavily involved in the early Civil Rights Movement, including the protest outside the Caledon Squat in 1968 which is often considered as the spark for people in their demand for better housing, better jobs, and civil rights.

“He has been involved in political activism his entire adult life, and has been elected many times as a councillor, MLA, and MP.

“Francie also served as a member of the party’s Ard Chomhairle during some of the most era-defining stages of the peace process.

“I want to thank Francie for his lifelong contribution to ensuring people’s rights are respected, his republican politics and his personal friendship.”