Fitzpatrick Quits FG Citing Isolation Over Abortion

16.10.2018

Louth TD Peter Fitzpatrick has resigned from Fine Gael, and announced that he will run as an Independent candidate in the next general election. In a move which has been the subject of much speculation over the last few weeks, the Dundalk man admitted his decision was due in part to a feeling of being “isolated” within Fine Gael. The pro-life TD was a vocal opponent of calls to repeal the 8th amendment.

In a statement, he explained reasons behind his decision.

“A number of weeks ago I confirmed that I would not be seeking the Fine Gael nomination to stand in the next General Election.

“I informed the Fine Gael Parliamentary Party Chairman, Martin Heydon, that I have resigned as a member of the party and for the remainder of the current Dáil I will represent the constituents of Louth and East Meath as an Independent TD. I will continue to represent the constituency with the same energy and commitment as before.”

He added: “The decision to resign from Fine Gael was a difficult decision to make. I have given 100% commitment during my time as a member of the party and have always been a team player. I backed the party when some very difficult decisions had to be taken, even when I did not agree with the party I always supported them.”

But he hit out at the party, saying, “Unfortunately over the past 15 months I have not been given the same support from Fine Gael as I had given them. My views were not always listened to and I felt isolated within the party itself.

The Argus. October 13.