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 32nd 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 31st 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 1st 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.