What inspired you to enter politics?
I volunteered for the People in Need fundraiser in Galway many years ago and that made me think that if I entered politics, I could help many people in Galway and right throughout the country.
How did you get started in public service?
I ran in the Local Election in the West Ward in Galway City in 2009 and was elected. That was my first electoral contest and it was successful.
Who has been a role model or inspiration for you?
My father was a member of the Executive Council of Fine Gael and I remember canvassing for every election with him as a child. He did that voluntarily as well as having his own “day job” and I thought it was very impressive.
What does a typical day in your job look like?
No day is the same. I could be in the Dáil all day and taking meetings with my officials and others. The following day I could be out visiting schools throughout the country and the day after I could have events and meetings in my constituency. It is a very busy life but very rewarding.
What is the most challenging part of your role?
I don’t really find it a challenge as such. The only difficulty is finding enough hours in the day to do all you want to.
What projects are you currently most excited about?
I recently launched the National Conversation on Education.
This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for children, young people, parents, educators and wider society to help shape Ireland’s education system for decades to come.
What are the biggest challenges facing Ireland right now?
Housing is the number one challenge. Since being returned to Government, housing has been the unrelenting focus of Fine Gael.
Over the past ten months, we have introduced a series of reforms to speed up the delivery of housing. This includes zoning more land, reforming arbitrary design apartment standards and implementing tax changes to boost supply.
These measures will have tangible benefits and will lead to a significant increase in construction of homes for families throughout the State.
How do you balance your work and personal life?
It’s a good question! While my spare time is dictated by my work commitments, particularly at the weekends, I do try to walk and swim regularly plus I sing with a vocal group called “Bel Canto”. We sing at charity events throughout the year and I find that very therapeutic.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to get into politics?
Do it! If you want to make a difference get involved. It can involve very long hours but it is very rewarding knowing that you are helping someone.
What is one very important life lesson you’ve learned from your time in politics?
You can make a difference. There are long and frustrating days involved but the opportunity to help someone substantively, either individually or collectively, is well worth the effort.
If you were to spend one day in Galway how would you spend it?
A walk in Rinville Park in Oranmore or on the Prom in Salthill, followed by a swim and an early night.
As a former student of Calasanctius college what are your fondest memories of your time here?
I had a wonderful time in the school. The teachers were excellent and I love coming back. As Minister, I recently signed off on the school going to planning for a major extension and I am very much looking forward to getting that project over the line.
