Write a commentSouth Down MLA Caitríona Ruane won't be putting her name forward for selection for the Assembly Election 2 March. The County Mayo native has been a member of the Assembly since 2003 and has been a vociferous campaigner both during and before her Stormont career.
A former professional Tennis player, representing Ireland in the Fed Cup, Caitríona also spent time as an international aid worker in Central America and Director of Féile an Phobail as well as being a staunch campaigner for the release of the 'Colombia Three'.
Minister Ruane was Education Minister from 2007 to 2011. During her political career she has been a strong supporter of LGBT rights and Irish language equality and was instrumental in the abolishing of the Eleven Plus.
Commenting on her decision Ms Ruane said "It has been an honour and privilege to represent the people of South Down in the Assembly for the last 14 years.
"Over the years I have been involved in assisting the growth and development of the peace process to create a better society for all our citizens.
"During that time I have had the pleasure of serving as Education Minister, abolishing the eleven plus exam, tackling underachievement, improving educational attainment and excellence for all, investing in the Irish medium sector and delivering the largest school building programme in decades.
"I was also proud to promote equality issues in the Assembly at every opportunity; equality for the LGB&T community, for Irish language speakers and for women. As a lifelong feminist I was honoured to have been selected twice by all parties to chair the Assembly's women's caucus.
"I was also privileged to serve as Principal Deputy Speaker of the Assembly.
"I have now decided not to put my name forward for selection for the next Assembly election.
"Sinn Féin has continued to grow in the South Down constituency, as it has across the island, and I have no doubt that local activists will choose a strong team to go before the electorate and they will have my full and enthusiastic support in any upcoming election, in which I will acting as an election agent.
"This will be a hugely important election and it is vital that people have the opportunity to call time on the DUP's arrogance and put respect and equality at the heart of the political institutions.
"I want to thank all of the people of South Down and the party in the area for the support and trust they have shown me over the years and I look forward to the continued growth of Sinn Féin in the area.
"I also want to thank my family; my husband Brian, children Eimear and Deirdre and my grandchild, Sé, for the love and support they have given me over the years."
