Labour colleagues disappointed at Colm Keaveney's resignation
Galway Bay fm newsroom - Galway East TD Colm Keaveney is being criticised by Labour members for his decision to resign from the party.
Dublin Mid West TD Robert Dowds says he feels let down.
Deputy Keaveney made the announcement this afternoon and in doing so will also be giving up his position as Chairperson of the party.
Deputy Keaveney lost the whip after voting against part of the Social Welfare Bill last year.
In a statement to Galway Bay fm news this afternoon, he says he made the decision with a heavy heart.
He says it is now apparent that cuts to SNAs, resource hours and to the mobility allowance are not decisions taken in isolation and argues that they are part of a consistent approach that this Government has taken.
Deputy Keaveney says he will continue to represent the people of his constituency and says his work with the Labour party has been rewarding.
Speaking outside Leinster House in the last hour, Colm Keaveney says he has taken the decision because he can't defend cuts to vulnerable groups in society.