Independent member of Dáil Eireann for the Waterford constituency

Minister for Training, Skills and Innovation

Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation

Date of Birth: 20 January 1955

Professional Experience:

May 2016                    Appointed Minister for Training, Skills and Innovation

February 2016             Returned to Dáil Eireann for the 32^nd Dáil

November 2013          Declared Opposition Deputy of 2013

2013-2015                   Member of the Council of Europe

March 2011                 Became a member of The Dáil Technical Group

Member of Committee on European Union Affairs

Member of Committee on Procedures & Privilages

Member of Committee on Public Service & Oversight

February 2011             Elected to Dáil Eireann for the 31^st Dáil

2009-2010                   Mayor of Waterford City

June 1999                    Elected to Waterford City Council as a member of the Workers Party

1987-1998                   Became a member of The Workers Party as Political Organiser

1975-1986                   Bell Lines Shipping Company

1973-1975                   Performance Sale Craft

Hobbies:

Reading and writing poetry, in 2013 the Ministers first volume of poetry titled Drop by “Drop Upon the Heart” was published.

Keen interest in local sport, soccer in particular has been a passion over the years has have taken up positions as Manager of St Joseph’s 1^st Division soccer club, Player Manager of Corinthians soccer club while also taking up a position as Committee member of Waterford Junior League.

The Minister has always had a great interest in Science and Nature, having lab equipment set up in my private home office/den.

Also an avid supporter of the arts and enjoy a vast collection of local pieces.