My vision for Tipperary:
I want Tipperary to be a location of good jobs for the local economy. I believe this can be the case and have worked with companies such as Fiserv (formerly First Data) and LMC Group to locate within the county. Tipperary can continue to be the choice of home for future generations. To do so, I believe adequate public services must be provided.
I want to see both Nenagh General Hospital and South Tipperary General Hospital funded and used to their potential, investment continued in Tipperary’s educational facilities and a significant increase in the provision of affordable housing. Coming from a rural village, I feel passionately about local communities.
I want to ensure communities across Tipperary thrive. To achieve this I will continue to work with local clubs and organisations, businesses and continue to advocate for essential services such as broadband. I want Tipperary to be a home for all and knows Tipperary needs to be kept a priority for this to be the case. I have a track record of delivery on a national and local level as being key to this.
My priorities:
- To continue encouraging and supporting investment in local jobs.
- To continue advocating for a state led approach in the solving of the current health and housing crisis.
- To continue fighting for the future of rural Ireland through the provision of services and infrastructure.
My experience:
I studied English and History in UCC, including a masters in politics. I gained an MBS in eCommerce in UCD and went on to become eBusiness manager in Failte Ireland. In July 2007 I was elected on the first count on the Agriculture Panel to Seanad Eireann. In September that year I was appointed Labour Party Spokesperson on Tourism and Seanad Spokesperson on Finance and Local Government. In 2009 I was elected to the European Parliament for Munster/Ireland South. In February 2011 I was elected to the 31st Dail. The same year I was appointed Minister of State for Public & Commuter Transport within the Department of Transport, Tourism & Sport. I have also served as Deputy Leader of the Labour Party and as the Minister for the Environment, Community & Local Government. In 2016, I was re-elected to the 32nd Dail.
