irish politics

Know a Backbencher: Joe McHugh TD for Donegal North East, Fine Gael

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(Back after a brief hiatus, I’ve been busy!) Joe McHugh: Member, Committee on the Implementation of the Good Friday Agreement (since 9 Jun 2011) Recent Dáil quote: “The programme for Government commits to tackling white collar crime.” Has spoken in 38 debates in the last year — below average among TDs. Has received answers to … Read more

Know a Backbencher: Áine Collins TD for Cork North West, Fine Gael

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Áine Collins: Member, Committee on Jobs, Social Protection and Education (since 9 Jun 2011) Member, Joint Administration Committee (since 9 Jun 2011) Member, Committee on Jobs, Social Protection and Education (since 9 Jun 2011) Recent Dáil quote: “[T]here has been corruption throughout our political system from the top to the bottom, which affected every level … Read more

Know a Backbencher: James Bannon TD for Longford/Westmeath, Fine Gael

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James Bannon: Former Fine Gael Senator (Industrial & Commercial Panel) Member, Committee on Environment, Transport, Culture and the Gaeltacht (since 9 Jun 2011) Recent Dáil quote: “Deputy Boyd Barrett wants to take up arms in Galway again.” Has spoken in 64 debates in the last year — average among TDs. Has received answers to 240 … Read more

Know a Backbencher: John Lyons TD for Dublin North West, Labour

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John Lyons: Member, Committee on Jobs, Social Protection and Education (since 9 Jun 2011) Member, Committee on Procedure and Privileges (since 9 Jun 2011) Member, Joint Administration Committee (since 9 Jun 2011) Member, Committee on Jobs, Social Protection and Education (since 9 Jun 2011) Recent Dáil quote: “our strategy of patient engagement with our EU … Read more

Know a Backbencher: Michael McNamara TD for Clare, Labour

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(Beginning a hopefully weekly series profiling the vast number of bums on seats you might never hear of in Dáil Eireann.) Michael McNamara: Member, Committee on Communications, Natural Resources and Agriculture (since 9 Jun 2011) Member, Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade (since 9 Jun 2011) Recent Dáil quote: ““Your party is underwhelming.” Has spoken … Read more