Sinn Féin Cork City Councillor Stephen Cunningham, who sparked a widespread search after being reporting missing, has today thanked family and friends for their concern.
Mr Cunningham, 23,
Read More:
"Firstly, I would like to thank my family, friends, colleagues, and the wider public, for their expressions of support and concern,” he said.
"Over the last number of weeks, I have found myself feeling enormous pressure. It hasn't been easy.
"I am grateful for all those who have rallied around me. I am now spending time with my family. I need some space and I would sincerely appreciate that my need for privacy be respected.
"Again, my heartfelt thanks to everyone."
Cllr Cunningham - one of the youngest local politicians in the country - was elected to the council in 2014 to represent the city's North East ward.