Mayor Jason Murphy and John O’Leary react to Mary Butler victory

Mayor of Waterford City & County Cllr Jason Murphy, and Comeragh area's Cllr John O’Leary have reacted to Fianna Fáil’s general election victory, with Mary Butler retaining her seat.

Cllr Murphy said: “I’m absolutely delighted. I was canvassing with her every night for the past three or four weeks and the reaction was very good. I had a good feeling about the election to be quite honest.

“She deserves it, she’s extremely hard working as junior minister for Older People and Mental Health, and I think at this point she should be in the running for a full ministry, I think Waterford needs that.

“She’s very passionate about her community and the people of Waterford city and county and I think its about time now she was recognized at cabinet level.

“So I’d like to give a shoutout to Michéal Martin, I don’t know what the formation of government is but I’d like to see Mary considered for full cabinet minister at this time. I think she’s brilliant.” 

Cllr John O’Leary suggested similar, mentioning that Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly is unlikely to retain his seat in Wicklow:

“I’m absolutely elated, thrilled and delighted for Mary Butler because I do believe sincerely she’s one of the hardest working TDs I’ve come across in my life time in politics.

“It wasn’t easy for Mary, from the point of view as being Minister for Older People and Mental Health, and the challenges that offers and the kind of commitment it takes to get problems solved in that area.”