Sinn Féin Director of Elections in Waterford steps down

A prominent figure in Waterford politics and David Cullinane's long-serving director of politics, Michael Doyle has announced his decision to step away from politics.

Doyle, who narrowly lost out in the 2019 Local Elections in Waterford City East, was a close companion of Sinn Féin TD David Cullinane in Leinster House and played a significant part in the resurgence of the party in the Déise in the nearly 10 years he spent working in politics.

"Following the recent election, I have decided to take a recharge break from working in Leinster House and behind the scenes in frontline politics for Sinn Féin," Michael Doyle wrote in a statement on social media.

"I will now try to write a new chapter and move to Catalunya next month to see what the Barcelona region has to offer from a living and working point of view. I am not exactly sure yet what that chapter entails but I will make it work.

"Politics is a funny old business. Generally, you don't get to leave on your own terms. Luckily I am, and I am taking this break on the best of terms." 

Doyle joined Sinn Féin as a Political Advisor in 2016 and said it has "been an absolute privilege to have worked as part of the Sinn Féin Seanad, European Parliament and Dáil political operations" during that period. "I have learned so much and met so many friends along the way throughout the 32 counties of Ireland and beyond.

"Waterford is in a very good place politically with Sinn Féin now being an extremely strong force. While other political parties and independents continue to exclude Sinn Féin from taking power in the 26 counties, that cannot continue forever.

"I will be keeping a very keen eye from afar. My interest in politics will remain and my burning desire to see a true Irish Republican government that will deliver a republic of social justice, equality and fairness in a reunited 32 county island will continue until it's delivered."