John Carroll has been an independent councillor since leaving Sinn Féin in 1997.
After almost 40 years as a public representative in the midlands a local councillor has decided not to run in next year's local election.
Independent councillor John Carroll is making the announcement after serving in Birr Urban District Council and subsequently in Offaly County Council since 1985.
A member of Sinn Féin until 1997, Mr Carroll served as Cathaoirleach of both Offaly County Council in 2020/2021 and Birr Town Council in 2005/2006 and 2013/2014 the final year of that institution.
In a statement he says he is particularly proud of the part he played in helping establish a Gaelscoil in Birr which will be moving into its newly built modern school in mid-January.