Former Cork TD Noel O'Flynn returns to politics to seek council seat vacated by son Ken
Former TD Noel O'Flynn with his son Ken O'Flynn at Nemo Rangers on Sunday morning. Picture: Larry Cummins
The Independent Ireland party has announced the return to politics of Cork's Noel O'Flynn.
Mr O'Flynn, the Blackpool-based former Fianna Fáil TD is expected to seek to be co-opted onto the Cork City Council seat being vacated by his son Ken after he was elected to the Dáil.
Mr O'Flynn was a TD for Cork North Central from 1997 to 2011. The newly-elected younger O'Flynn has been a councillor since 2008, first in Fianna Fáil and as an independent since 2020. He ran in the general election for Independent Ireland.
A statement by the party on Tuesday said: "Independent Ireland is pleased to announce that former Teachta Dála (TD) Noel O’Flynn will be our official nominee for the recently vacated seat on Cork City Council. With a distinguished career dedicated to public service, we are confident that Noel’s return will bring invaluable experience and insight to our local governance.
"Noel O’Flynn has been a formidable figure in Cork politics since his initial service on the Cork City Council beginning in 1991, followed by his election to Dáil Éireann, where he served until his retirement in 2011. Throughout his career, Noel has demonstrated unwavering commitment to the people of Cork, advocating for community development and advancing important local issues.
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"His wealth of experience, combined with a deep understanding of the needs and aspirations of Cork’s residents, uniquely positions him to make significant contributions to the city’s ongoing development. We believe his tremendous skill set will be an asset to the council as it addresses current challenges and seeks to enhance the quality of life for all citizens.
"Independent Ireland is excited about this new chapter and looks forward to working with Noel O’Flynn as he re-engages with the community and brings his vision for a thriving Cork to fruition."
It is understood that Independent Ireland leader Michael Collins approached newly elected Mr O’Flynn last night and asked would Noel be interested in being co-opted.
Speaking on Tuesday, Ken O'Flynn said the party had "decided the best option to fill my seat is someone who can hit the ground running".
In 2018, Mr O'Flynn was made a tribal leader in Kenya in recognition of his support of businesses at a special ceremony and has been given a Friendship Medal of Diplomacy by the government of Taiwan.
The Social Democrats will also have to co-opt onto Cork City Council following the election of Pádraig Rice.
