28/08/2026
Happy retirement, Joycean and now former Irish Independent journalist Senan Molony. . Irish Independent political correspondent Senan Molony retires after four-decade career in journalism
Simon Harris leads Dáil tributes as journalist signs off after 27 years covering politics
Darragh Nolan, The Irish Independent, Friday 28 August 2026
Irish Independent political correspondent Senan Molony has retired following a career in journalism spanning more than four decades.
In addition to stints as deputy political editor and political correspondent of the Irish Independent, Mr Molony previously worked as political editor for the Irish Daily Mail from 2009 to 2019.
He rejoined the Irish Independent during the Covid-19 pandemic.
He spent a total of 27 years covering politics. In addition to his career as a journalist, he is the author of several books.
On Friday, when TDs were recalled to Leinster House for an emergency sitting to vote on the deferral of excise duty increases, Tánaiste and Finance Minister Simon Harris took some time to wish Mr Molony a happy retirement on what was his final day covering proceedings in the Dáil.
“It’s unusual enough, Ceann Comhairle, for the Dáil to be recalled during a period of recess, but it also happens to be recalled at a time when an esteemed member of our political press gallery is covering proceedings in this chamber for the very final time,” the Fine Gael leader said.
“For more than four decades, Senan Molony has held those of us in public life to account. Senan has always brought a great sense of wit and humour to his work, together with curiosity, determination and professionalism.
“So, it just so happens as I move this resolution today on behalf of Government, I want to join with so many across the political divide, in wishing you, Senan, and your family, every happiness for a long, fulfilling and very well-deserved retirement.”
Mr Molony’s career in journalism began with his first byline in The Irish Press in June 1983. He worked as a freelancer after that before joining The Evening Herald.
Before working in political journalism, he covered crime. During his time as crime correspondent for The Star, he was the first national journalist at the scene of the December 1996 murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier in Cork.
During his time with The Star, Mr Molony also covered the murder of Sunday Independent journalist Veronica Guerin in 1996, later giving evidence against the Gilligan gang in the Special Criminal Court.
He is also the winner of a number of national awards, including the ‘Scoop of the Year’ at the National Newspapers of Ireland Awards for his story on the Michael Healy-Rae Celebrities Go Wild voting scandal.
Mr Molony and his wife Brigid were married in 1998 and they have two daughters and a son.
