Why I got involved in politics

I got involved in politics because I am passionate about my community, being an advocate on behalf of our most disadvantaged and most vulnerable people in society, and understanding that there is a need to provide public services and public infrastructure to our communities. We must ensure that towns like Mallow, Blarney, Ballincollig, the North Side of Cork City and every rural area in between is supported in Dáil Éireann. I got involved in politics to be that supporter.

My priorities

I have a number of priorities over this Dáil term. 

For me, the single biggest infrastructure project needed for my hometown of Mallow is the construction of the Mallow Relief Road. This project will allow Mallow to grow economically, socially and give us the opportunity to build more homes. 

We must ensure that Mallow General Hospital continues to be invested in, we must ensure that services are protected and upgraded, providing the people of the Munster region of a fantastic regional hospital. 

The N/M 20 is a huge priority for me. It is farcical to think that in 2025 we don’t have a motorway connecting our second and third largest cities. We need to see investment from government with a view to getting shovels in the ground for this project as soon as possible. 

Rural transport is an absolute priority for me. For too long, rural parts of Cork North Central have been left behind when it comes to public transport. We need an efficient transport system connecting towns and villages with larger towns like Mallow and with Cork City. This transport must be reliable and affordable. 

We need to see direct investment in our education system, primary, post primary, special schools and third level institutions across Cork. We need to afford every child the right to an education within their own locality, which allows for their own needs, allows for subject choice and for a fantastic education. 

My background

I was born and reared in Mallow town. I live at home in Mallow. I am a past pupil of Scoil Isogain infant school, St Patrick’s Boys National School, the Patrician Academy and I am proud graduate of Mary Immaculate College. I hold an undergraduate Bachelor of Education in Business Studies and Religious Education. I have previously taught in both Coachford College and Mayfield Community School. 

Clubs and Committees

• Mallow GAA
• Mallow Parish Pastoral Council
• Mallow Meals and Wheels
• Mallow Tidy Towns
• Mallow Arts Group