Dara Murphy resigns: "Most importantly I would like to thank the people of Cork North Central." Photo: Gareth Chaney Collins

Cork TD Dara Murphy resigns with immediate effect

Cork North Central TD Dara Murphy has resigned his seat in Dáil Éireann.

The Fine Gael TD and former Lord Mayor of Cork had become embroiled in increasing controversy over his new role in Europe while continuing to act as a TD in the Dáil.

The now former Cork North Central TD was present in Leinster House for the vote of no confidence in Housing Minister Eoghan Murphy last night.

He handed in his resignation shortly after, saying it was an honour to represent the people of Cork.

In a statement released by Mr Murphy this morning he said: "Last night, I met with the Acting Ceann Comhairle and gave him a letter informing him of my decision to resign my seat in Dail Eireann.

"I also met the Taoiseach Leo Varadkar last night and spoke to him about my decision. I will commence a new position in the European Commission today."

"I will of course co-operate with any relevant statutory procedure that may be initiated," he continued. However, the Standards in Public Office Commission or Dáil Ethics Committee will not be able to investigate him as he is no longer in public office.

"In addition, I would like to acknowledge and give thanks for the support I have received from so many people: the Taoiseach and the Fine Gael Party, at local and national level; my family; and most importantly I would like to thank the people of Cork North Central," the statement concluded.

A by-election was held in Dara Murphy's constituency of Cork North Central last weekend to fill Fianna Fáil MEP Billy Kelleher's seat. Some candidates at the time criticized Mr Murphy for not resigning sooner, and to allow people vote for two new TDs.

It's now likely that Cork North Central will be without full representation until after the next General Election, which it's thought will be held in May. The seat, however, if it goes any longer than six months it's likely another by-election will need to be held.