Michael Healy-Rae has resigned from his role as junior minister, saying the Government’s latest support package “wasn’t enough” to address the scale of hardship facing workers and families.
The Kerry TD confirmed his decision shortly after announcing he would vote no confidence in the coalition, describing it as a “big decision” taken after significant reflection.
“It was a big decision which was thought through a lot by me. I want to work for the people of Kerry. But I listen to people and I believe the Government had lost its way, the leadership in particular had lost their way,” he said.
Healy-Rae made clear that his resignation was driven by dissatisfaction with the €505 million Government support package, arguing it failed to reflect the realities facing households across the country.
“Over the last week, I tried everything I could to help people. The package wasn’t enough, it didn’t recognise enough the hardship that is out there,” he said.
In one of his most pointed remarks, he criticised the State’s financial approach during the ongoing cost pressures, saying: “There is a lot of money in this country. There’s a rainy-day fund, it’s pouring now.”
The Independent TD said he had engaged with Government in the lead-up to the package announcement, attempting to secure additional supports, but ultimately felt he could no longer stand over the response.
He also stressed that his decision was shaped by direct feedback from constituents and workers, particularly those impacted by rising costs in agriculture and fuel.
“I am standing with people who cried at the side of the road, protesters. When I say protesters they are workers, they are not people who are not working – they are taxpayers, they have loans on diggers, they are housewives who are really struggling and they are moms and dads that felt the government were not doing enough,” he said.
Healy-Rae added that he had always seen himself as a “gauge” of public sentiment and believed the Government had become disconnected from the realities facing ordinary people.
“I have listened to the workers and people who have soldiered with me over the years,” he said.
While stepping down from his ministerial role, he indicated he would continue his work as a TD, focusing on representing people on the ground.
“I will continue working for people on the ground, doing my best at all times,” he said, adding simply: “I am sorry and I thank you all very much.”
His resignation marks a significant moment for the coalition, increasing pressure ahead of a no-confidence vote, with Healy-Rae confirming he will oppose the Government.
