ⓒ The Irish Times
John McGahon, Fine Gael senator, has announced he is stepping away from politics to focus on his family. Following the recent general election, where he received 4,021 first-preference votes but failed to secure a Dáil seat, McGahon expressed his gratitude to the people of Dundalk for their support.
Addressing supporters at the Louth constituency count center, McGahon stated his intention to spend time with his family and evaluate his future options. He acknowledged the significant support he received and expressed his intention to carry that with him into the future. His running mate, Paula Butterly, is expected to secure a seat in the Dáil.
McGahon’s recent past has been under scrutiny. In 2022, he was acquitted in a criminal trial related to an assault outside a pub in 2018. However, he was subsequently found 65% liable in a civil trial and ordered to pay €39,000 in damages. Video evidence of the assault surfaced during the recent election campaign, attracting considerable attention.
When asked about a potential return to public life, McGahon remained noncommittal, stating that he would assess the situation in the coming days. He expressed understanding for the questions raised about his candidacy but emphasized that the ultimate decision rested with the people of Dundalk and County Louth. He accepted their decision and noted that this is part of the political process.
McGahon was elected to Seanad Éireann in March 2020. He reflected on the experience and thanked everyone involved in his political journey.
