FF Leader Micheál Martin pays tribute to Deputy John Browne on his retirement
Published on: 29 September 2015
Fianna Fáil Leader Micheál Martin TD has paid tribute to Deputy John Browne following his announcement that he will retire at the next General Election.
Deputy Martin commented, “On my own behalf and on behalf of the entire Fianna Fáil organisation, I want to thank John for his outstanding service in Dáil Éireann for the last 33 years. John has represented the people of Wexford with passion and unwavering commitment since 1982. He has served under three Taoisigh and has had an impressive impact upon public life.
“John is a talented and dedicated representative who has worked tirelessly on behalf of communities across Wexford. His election to the Dáil in 1982, and his subsequent re-election in every General Election since then, is a testament to how hard he has worked down through the years and his status as a genuine community champion in the county. So too is the respect and affection in which he is held by colleagues on all sides of the political spectrum.
“John has an impressive track record in public life which is clearly demonstrated by his service in a number of different offices. He served as Assistant Chief Whip, Minister of State in the Department of Agriculture and Food with special responsibility for Food Industry and Minister of State in the Department of Environment with special responsibility for Environmental Protection. John also served as Minister of State in the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources with his most recent appointment being Minister of State for Fisheries. John also served as Chairman of the Oireachtas Committee on Agriculture, Food and Marine.
“Throughout his time in Dáil Éireann John continuously highlighted the strategic importance of the agricultural and fisheries industry. He has played an important role in developing the food industry in Ireland and ensuring it became a central part of Government economic policy.
“I want to wish John all the best on what is a well deserved retirement. His presence in the Fianna Fáil parliamentary party will be greatly missed by his colleagues in the Dáil, Seanad and all the staff,” concluded Deputy Martin.