Rena Donaghey puts family first as she announces she will not contest local elections

Buncrana Fianna Fáil councillor Rena Donaghey has announced she is leaving politics after almost 30 years.

Elected in June 1994 to Buncrana Town Council, she was elected to Donegal County Council in 1999.

She was the first woman to be county councillor in the Buncrana area, and just the third woman in the 121-year history of the county council to serve as its chair. 

She said in a statement that “after careful consideration with my family and friends” she had reached the “significant decision” not to contest the local elections in June. The decision came “with a blend of emotions”.

“I firmly believe it is the right one for me at this juncture in my life. A job can be replaced but precious time with family cannot be,” she said, adding that the ability to spend more time with her grandchildren had played a big part in her decision.

“My grandchildren, who are now in their infancy, will inevitably grow older, and I am determined to cherish and prioritise these precious years with them. We now have a wee baby in our house, wee Molly, and it's hard to go out every day and leave her.”

In pictures: Style in plentiful supply at Scoil Mhuire Buncrana fashion show

The Inishowen Gateway Hotel in Buncrana played host to the Scoil Mhuire Buncrana fashion show on Friday night

She said she was “deeply grateful to the electorate for their trust and unwavering support”.

“Despite the challenges, I am grateful for the enduring support of the people who have entrusted me with this responsibility.”

Achievements in Buncrana that she highlighted during her time as a councillor include Cockhill Bridge, Swan’s Park, a new state of the art housing estate in Rockytown, the new Primary Care Centre, a digital hub and a daytime ambulance for the town.

 “Our long-awaited leisure centre is ready to be demolished and rebuilt.  Plans are at an advanced stage for a new primary school, one of the biggest schools in Donegal and the three-school campus is progressing to planning also.  So Buncrana, my home town, has lots to be thankful for. Ni neart le cur le chéile.”

She said that while she will “miss the camaraderie in Lifford, I eagerly anticipate dedicating more time to my family and grandchildren”.