Professional Documents
Culture Documents
2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 10. 11. 12. 14. 15. 16. 22. 29. INFORMATION PROGRAMME OF EVENTS MESSAGE FROM THE GENERAL SECRETARY MESSAGE FROM AN TAOISEACH LIST OF EXECUTIVE COUNCIL CANDIDATES VICE PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES
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DUBLIN CANDIDATES EAST CANDIDATES NORTH WEST CANDIDATES SOUTH CANDIDATES PARLIAMENTARY PARTY CANDIDATES COUNCIL OF LOCAL PUBLIC REPRESENTATIVES CANDIDATES FINANCIAL REVIEW OF THE FINE GAEL REVENUE ACCOUNTS FOR 2010 MOTIONS FOR DEBATE NEW FINE GAEL TDS AND SENATORS STANDING ORDERS (Inside back cover) FLOOR PLAN (Inside front cover)
information
VOTING FOR EXECUTIVE COUNCIL
Voting will take place between 1.00pm and 4.00pm in Liey Hall 2. To vote, members must produce a valid Membership Card (2011/12) and Delegate Card and may be asked to produce other means of ID. Voting is open to all public representatives, members of Executive Council, Constituency and District Ocers and ve-delegates-per-Branch.
SOCIAL EVENTS
Friday, March 30 - 9.30pm-11.30pm, Level 3: Ard Fheis Social. Saturday, March 31 - 9.30pm-11.00pm, Forum, Ground Floor: Ard Fheis Social. 11.30pm-1.30am, Gibson Hotel, Point Village: Dancing to Jason OCallaghans Party Knights.
LUAS
The Luas Red Line runs directly behind the CCD, conveniently linking to Connolly and Heuston rail stations, as well as Busras and the Red Cow. Stops adjacent to the CCD are provided at Mayor Square and Spencer Dock, directly behind the CCD. Last tram departs 12.30am.
iPHONE APP
Please download the free Convention Centre Dublin (CCD) iPhone App on arrival at the Convention Centre Dublin to help you nd your way around the building.
CLOAKROOM
The cloakroom is located on the Ground Floor near the main entrance and has a charge of 2 per-item.
ACCOMMODATION
The following are the hotels in the immediate area: Gibson Hotel (10 minutes walk) The Point Village, East Wall Road, Dublin 1 Tel: 01 681 5000. Maldron Hotel, Cardi Lane (7 minutes walk) Cardi Lane, Dublin 2. Tel: 01 6439500. Jurys Inn Custom House (7 minutes walk) Custom House Quay, Dublin 1. Tel: 01 854 1500 Please quote Ard when making a reservation. Clarion Hotel IFSC (5 minutes walk) North Wall Quay, Dublin 1. Tel: 01 433 8800.
CRCHE
A free Crche, with qualied sta, will be available from 11.00am to 10.00pm on Saturday. Further information from the Enquiries Desk in the CCD.
whats happening...
FRIDAY, MARCH 30:
7.00pm-8.00pm, Auditorium: Opening Ceremony followed by Taoiseachs Address 8.00pm-9.30pm, Auditorium: New Era in Child protection Chair: Damien English TD Minister Frances Fitzgerald TD and Minister Ciaran Cannon TD 9.30pm-11.30pm, Level 3: Ard Fheis Social 2.00pm-3.30pm, Wicklow Hall 1: Planning for a Better Future Chair: Paudie Coey TD Minister Phil Hogan TD Minister Leo Varadkar TD and Minister Fergus ODowd TD 3.30pm-4.30pm, Auditorium: The European Stability Treaty Chair: Paschal Donohoe TD Director of Elections 3.30pm-4.30pm, Wicklow Hall 1: Towards a Safer, More Secure Ireland Chair: Marcella Corcoran Kennedy TD Minister Alan Shatter TD 4.30pm-5.30pm, Wicklow Hall 1: Promoting Irish Culture & Sport Chair: Michelle Mulherin TD Minister Jimmy Deenihan TD Minister Michael Ring TD and Minister Dinny McGinley TD 5.00pm-6.00pm, Wicklow Hall 2B: The Common Agricultural Policy Minister Simon Coveney TD 5.00pm-6.00pm, Liey Meeting Room 1: Northern Ireland/UK Relationships Chair: Joe McHugh TD Seamus Mallon 6.30pm: Auditorium re-opens for Taoiseachs Address 7.30pm, Auditorium: Warm-up and Speeches 8.30pm-9.00pm, Auditorium (Live TV): Address by Enda Kenny TD, Taoiseach & Leader of Fine Gael 9.30pm-11.00pm, Forum, Ground Floor: Ard Fheis Social 11.30pm-1.30am, Gibson Hotel, Point Village: Dancing to Jason OCallaghans Party Knights
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Best regards,
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SOUTH (3 TO BE ELECTED)
Danagher, Mary Limerick Fitzgerald, Maurice Tipperary North Kelleher, Garret Cork North West Kelly, Cian Limerick City ONeill, Nuala Cork East
DUBLIN (3 TO BE ELECTED)
Heneghan, Brendan Dublin South East Kennedy, John Dublin South Murphy, Brian Dublin North Van Turnhnout, Michael Dublin South Walsh, Barry Dublin North Central
EAST (3 TO ELECTED)
Butler, Leo Carlow/Kilkenny Cogavin, Ellen Meath East Finnegan, Moira Kildare South Hayes, John Wexford
NORTH-WEST (3 TO BE ELECTED)
Carey, Leonora Clare Delamere, John Longford/Westmeath Munnelly, Lorraine Mayo Tuy, Austin Sligo/North Leitrim
Gerry OConnell
TIPPERARY NORTH
A 35 year-old solicitor from Killenaule, Co Tipperary, Gerry OConnell was rst elected a Vice-President of the Party in 2004 and has been re-elected to that position at each subsequent Ard Fheis. He is the Chairperson of the Executive Council sub-committee on the Fine Gael Constitution and Rules. Gerry is a former President of Young Fine Gael and served the Party as a Constituency Director of Elections in the 2007 and 2011 General Elections, the 2009 Local and European Elections, and the 2011 Presidential Election. Gerry is also the Secretary of the Collins 22 Society, has compiled various presentations on Fine Gael history, and has acted as a motivational speaker for the Party at General Election rallies, Michael Collins rallies and Ard Fheiseanna.
dublin candidates
Brendan Heneghan DUBLIN SOUTH EAST
Brendan Heneghan is a member of Terenure Branch, Dublin South East, and an outgoing Executive Council member for Dublin. He is also a member of Disciplinary Committee and chairs the Dublin North West Review Group. Brendan has acted on a number of occasions as Director of Elections, most recently in Dublin South Central for the 2011 General Election. He is also active in day-to-day activities such as canvassing and leaet drops for a number of representatives. The key focus of the new Executive will be the 2014 Local Elections. Brendan has an extensive knowledge of the entire country. He believes this would assist the new Executive greatly in planning a successful 2014 campaign, following which Fine Gael will remain by far the largest party in local government. Brendan is a solicitor by profession, acting as a consultant to one of the countrys biggest law rms.
dublin candidates
contd.
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east candidates
Leo Butler CARLOW/KILKENNY
I am a married father of one from South Kilkenny. For the past 20 years I have worked as an electronics and software engineer for an indigenous Irish company supplying equipment to the world automotive industry. I have been chairperson of SERCHAM (South East Chambers of Commerce), co-author of the SEA 2020 Plan and co-sponsor of the University of the South East application. I have been assistant campaign manager for Deputy John Paul Phelan in European and National Elections. I am Secretary of the Kilmacow Branch, Secretary of the Piltown District and Policy Ocer of the Carlow/Kilkenny Constituency. I have been involved at strategy level for Local, National and European Elections at both district and constituency level. It is my ambition to be part of the national strategy committee for the 2016 General Election. I believe my passion for politics and entrepreneurial experience will be an asset.
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south candidates
Mary Danagher LIMERICK
Mary is Chair of the Deel District in Limerick and a former Member of the Executive Council. She has held various ocerships within the Party over many years. First elected to the Executive in 2004, and again in 2007, Mary topped the poll on both occasions. During that time she rose to the challenge of working as part of the Fine Gael team to rebuild the Party. She served on various sub-committees of the Executive, including those of Ard Fheis, Constitution & Rules, and Aliations. She was also a member of the Seanad Selection Committee. The most challenging period for Mary on the Executive was when she chaired the Organisation sub-committee, which successfully led the selection of candidates, many of whom are Oireachtas members today. She did not seek election to the last Executive as she cared for her late mother at home. Mary has a deep knowledge of every Munster constituency, and on the basis of her proven record of commitment, ability and loyalty to the Fine Gael Party, and its Leadership, she is seeking your earnest support. Mary is a self-employed businesswoman, managing her own training company at Raheen Business Park, Limerick.
south candidates
Cian Kelly LIMERICK CITY
Cian is a 30 year-old barrister from Limerick City. Currently, Cian is Limerick City Constituency Chairman and was previously Co-Treasurer. He has also been actively involved in the Limerick City Constituency electoral strategy committees for European, Dil and Local Elections. Cian was actively involved in Fine Gael in Galway West, at Constituency Executive level, while a student at UCG, where he was Chairman of the college branch of YFG.
contd.
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He was also a member of the YFG National Executive from 2001-2003. Outside of politics Cian is actively involved in sport through GAA, rugby and soccer. I am running for the Executive Council as I feel it must be the driving force in ensuring we continue as the largest political party in Ireland, in the Oireachtas and Local Government. I feel I am the best candidate to voice the opinions of the grassroots members on how we can achieve this.
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accounts
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accounts
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2010
1. OIREACHTAS GRANT PARTY LEADER 2010 Oireachtas grant Party Leaders Allowance 2. OIREACHTAS GRANT ELECTORAL ACT Oireachtas grant Electoral Act 3. PARTY INCOME 2010 Aliation fees Party fund National draw Donations Special events and other income 392,633 104,735 595,112 19,050 120,502 1,232,032 2009 407,272 100,314 601,343 19,467 184,800 1,313,196 1,574,916 1,574,916 2,909,462 2009 2,921,386
accounts
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2010
4. OIREACHTAS GRANT PARTY LEADER EXPENDITURE 2010 Headquarters salaries, benets and related costs Leaders oce Consultancy fees Printing oce Press oce and publicity Dublin oce Ard Fheis and conferences Youth oce Repairs, maintenance, cleaning and security Depreciation of oce furniture and equipment Rates and insurances Telephone Computer supplies and maintenance Audit fees Travel, meetings and subsistence Legal and professional fees Depreciation of buildings Depreciation of computer equipment Depreciation of motor vehicles Stationery supplies Subscriptions and donations Sta training and development Light and heat Bank interest and charges Postage, couriers and taxis Motor expenses Papers, magazines and owers Womens development programme Sta recruitment/temporary sta 564,778 843,569 254,828 76,927 308,368 142,472 74,258 70,240 15,631 39,371 32,100 22,498 16,431 15,805 14,689 22,553 18,000 9,151 14,231 4,471 8,498 560 4,932 3,912 3,321 3,344 1,769 322 2,587,029 2009 604,993 957,214 427,129 114,215 362,320 142,915 145,787 66,821 41,401 40,976 30,997 25,340 22,546 18,081 17,580 16,432 18,000 15,017 14,231 10,323 9,073 8,588 7,776 6,374 2,982 2,786 1,926 1,247 183 3,133,254
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accounts
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2010
5.OIREACHTAS GRANT ELECTORAL ACT EXPENDITURE 2010 Headquarters salaries, benets and related costs Printing oce Constituency expenses Dublin oce Youth oce Repairs, maintenance, cleaning and security Depreciation of oce furniture and equipment Rates and insurances Telephone Computer supplies and maintenance Audit fees Travel, meetings and subsistence Legal and professional fees Depreciation of buildings Depreciation of computer equipment Depreciation of motor vehicles Stationery supplies Subscriptions and donations Sta training and development Light and heat Hire purchase/nance lease interest Bank interest and charges Postage, couriers and taxis Motor expenses Papers, magazines and owers Womens development programme Sta recruitment/temporary sta 630,240 179,495 294,413 132,473 65,311 14,535 26,247 29,847 20,920 15,277 14,695 13,659 20,971 12,000 6,101 9,488 4,157 7,902 520 4,586 32,323 3,638 3,088 3,109 1,645 300 1,546,940 2009 624,625 266,502 281,509 133,777 62,549 38,753 27,317 29,015 23,719 21,105 16,925 16,455 15,382 12,000 10,012 9,488 9,662 8,492 8,039 7,278 48,418 5,967 2,792 2,607 1,803 1,168 171 1,685,529
accounts
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2010
6. PARTY EXPENDITURE 2010 Campaigns and elections Fundraising Aliation expenses Interest on bank borrowings 128,553 168,749 12,432 40,581 350,315 BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2010 2010 FIXED ASSETS Tangible assets Memorabilia at cost CURRENT ASSETS Debtors Cash at bank Cash in hand CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR NET CURRENT ASSETS CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE AFTER ONE YEAR 1,922,273 REPRESENTED BY: Capital reserve Revaluation reserve Premises fund REVENUE ACCOUNT 426,986 1,541,276 61,025 2,029,287 (107,014) 1,922,273 2,130,047 12,337 2,142,384 611,158 897,775 1,391 1,510,324 (1,730,435) (220,111) 1,922,273 2009 3,675,932 12,337 3,688,269 547,288 188,319 199 735,806 (1,759,986) (1,024,180) 2,664,089 (533,942) 2,130,147 426,986 2,981,276 61,025 3,469,287 (1,339,140) 2,130,147 2009 1,224,842 206,264 15,692 46,827
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1,493,625
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3) that the references in rules 16, 22(v) and 32(ii) to year shall be altered to calendar year Executive Council AMENDMENT 4 Aliation Appeals That Rule 14 (viii) be amended by substituting the words within one month of the date of the lodgment of an appeal for the words by 15 June and by substituting the words 31 October for the words 15 September. Executive Council AMENDMENT 5 Disability & Equality Ocer That Rule 29 be amended by deleting the words, Disability and Equality Ocer from the rst paragraph of rule 29 (i), by deleting the words and of a Disability and Equality Ocer, from the second paragraph of rule 29(i) and by deleting the words, Disability and Equality Ocer from rule 29(iii). Executive Council AMENDMENT 6 Parliamentary Party That Rule 54(d)(v) be amended to read Election of four members of the Parliamentary Party to the Executive Council by and from its membership at the Ard Fheis, that a new Rule 54(d)(vi) be added being (vi) Election of two members (who shall not be members of the Parliamentary Party) to the Executive Council elected by the Council of Local Representatives by and from its membership at the Ard Fheis and by the consequent renumbering of Rule 54(d)(vi) to (x) and any other relevant cross reference in these Rules. Executive Council AMENDMENT 7 Preparation of accounts That Rule 22(v) and rule 32(ii) be amended by replacing the wording two Ocers by two Treasurers. Executive Council AMENDMENT 8 Bye-Election Candidate That rule 35(e) be amended to read as follows: In any Dil Bye Election, the names of Candidates who may be nominated shall, unless the Executive Council otherwise decides, be furnished to the Executive Council by the Constituency Executive at least fourteen days before the Convention. Only Candidates so nominated and approved by the Executive Council shall be submitted to the Constituency Convention. Such a Convention shall select a Candidate from among the names so submitted. Executive Council AMENDMENT 9 Names of Local Authorities That rule 56(a) be amended to read as follows;
There shall be established a Council of Local Representatives of the Party of which members of City, County, Borough and Town Councils and dars Na Gaeltachta taking the Party whip shall be members. Executive Council AMENDMENT 10 Correction of text That a new rule 67(d) be added as follows; Notwithstanding (a) and (b) above, the Executive Council shall have the power to make amendments to this Constitution & Rules solely in the following circumstances; 1) to correct any error in cross referencing which arises following the adoption of alterations in accordance with rule 67(a) and (b); 2) to correct references to the names of bodies referred to in this Constitution & Rules where such bodies have been re-named or replaced by bodies with similar function. Executive Council ORGANISATION MOTION 1 Special Conference to review Constitution & Rules That the Executive Council be mandated to review the Constitution & Rules such a review to include rule 2, 7, 14,17,18,22,35(e), 53 and any rule related thereto with a view to recommending whether any changes to the Constitution & Rules be adopted. If the Executive Council so determines, following its review of the Constitution and Rules, that a change should be submitted to the organisation for consideration, it is hereby authorised if it so recommends, to convene a Special Meeting pursuant to rule 67(a)(ii) for purpose of considering any relevant amendment. Executive Council
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4. That this Ard Fheis supports the Governments proposals for retraining and reskilling of the unemployed into targeting areas that meet the needs of the labour market. Carnaross Branch, Meath West 5. That this Ard Fheis welcomes the Governments focus on entrepreneurship in the action plan for jobs and asks for a speedy rollout of measures to support existing entrepreneurs and inspire new ones. Willington Branch, Dublin South West 6. That this Ard Fheis appreciates the Governments renewed emphasis on supporting the agri-food sector and tourism sector, two sectors of the economy which can aid economic recovery in all parts of the country, and urges more policy initiatives in these sectors. Ballyhale Branch, Carlow/Kilkenny 7. That this Ard Fheis asks the Government to accelerate the policy of providing help and support for Irish businesses to export to the BRIC countries (Brazil, Russia, India and China) which are experiencing growth and are a huge potential market for Irish business, especially the agriculture industry. Fethard Templetown Branch, Wexford 8. This Ard Fheis welcomes the steps taken by the new Government to develop the tourist sector, the initial signs of recovery in employment in the sector and calls for the retention of the new reduced rate of VAT of 9% and for the completion of reforms of the Joint Labour Committee structure. Kinnity Branch, Laois Oaly 9. This Ard Fheis strongly supports the implementation of the European Commissions Horizon 2020 plan to assist Member States with 80 billion of investment in research and innovation and calls on the Government to maximise the potential for jobs and growth which can ow to Ireland from this investment. Grith Collins Branch, Dublin North Central 10. That this Ard Fheis asks the Government to consider not withdrawing the halving of the jobs tax (lower rate of PRSI) at the end of 2013, as presently scheduled, in order to boost employment, as the OECD have recommended. John Kelly Branch, Rathfarnham, Dublin South 11. That this Ard Fheis urges the Government in its management of the public nances to place a greater emphasis on reducing day-to-day public spending, rather than reducing spending on infrastructure or increasing tax. Cobh Branch, Cork East 12. That this Ard Fheis urges the Government to increase investment in and use of information technology across the public sector, promoting the sharing of data where appropriate, as a
means to increase eciency in our day-to-day public spending. Michael Collins Branch, Bray, Wicklow 13. That this Ard Fheis supports the Governments achievements in meeting its public nances targets without increasing income tax or corporation tax, and recommends the Government continue this policy in order to bring condence and recovery to the economy. Bishopstown South Branch, Cork South Central 14. That this Ard Fheis asks the Government to ringfence proceeds from property taxation for local services and job creation initiatives. Taylors Hill Kingston Branch, Galway West
to 30% increase in bed days and outpatient treatments. Dublin South Constituency Executive 8. That this Ard Fheis calls on the Government to support a more targeted form of Child Benet which protects the most vulnerable in society. Dublin South Constituency Executive 9. That this Ard Fheis calls on the Government to enter consultations with Carer Groups once a draft version of a new Carers Strategy is published. Bundoran Branch, Donegal South West
reform and calls on the Government to continue to implement the recommendations of the Moriarty and Mahon reports. John Boland Skerries Branch, Dublin North Related motion: Dublin South Constituency Executive
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and calls on Fine Gael in Government to reform and continue to drive for eciency and better service delivery for all those working within the Agri-food industry. Carysfort Priory Branch, Dun Laoghaire
in Government to working with the private sector to ensure the availability of aordable next generation broadband to all regions of Ireland to help create jobs and new businesses. Monaghan YFG, Cavan/Monaghan TRANSPORT 7. This Ard Fheis welcomes the decision to integrate the rail system in Dublin by including the connecting of the Luas lines and the extension of the line to Broombridge in the Government Capital programme through to 2016 and calls for work on this project to start as soon as possible. Stoneybatter Branch, Dublin Central 8. This Ard Fheis calls for the Government to develop a viable plan for the future ownership and operation of Shannon Airport over the next few months. New Quay/Bellharbour Branch, Clare 9. This Ard Fheis welcomes the recent decision of the Government to sell the remaining State stake in Aer Lingus at a time when market conditions are favourable and an acceptable price can be achieved. Dublin West Constituency Executive 10. This Ard Fheis believes that in addressing their current nancial diculties the CIE Group of companies need to prioritise the reduction of their costs over further fare increases and service reductions. YFG National Executive
Authority to provide independent regulation of the legal profession and calls on the Government to uphold and protect consumers rights and interests as well as providing for new opportunities for newly qualied lawyers. Dublin South East Constituency Executive 2. That this Ard Fheis calls on the Government to tackle, as a matter of urgency, the issue of widespread unsustainable personal debt. Dublin North West Constituency Executive 3. That this Ard Fheis calls on the Minister for Justice to ensure that resources are managed in such a way as to enable the Garda to prioritise organised crime and drugs. Cosgrave/Mitchell Branch, Dublin South Central 4. That this Ard Fheis calls on the Government to do everything possible to enable the DPPs oce to prosecute white collar crime in the interests of justice and to ensure that lessons have been learned from the past and that there are sucient deterrents in place to prevent large scale white collar criminality or gross professional negligence in corporate entities. Woodquay Tyrellon Branch, Galway West 5. That this Ard Fheis welcomes the enactment of the Criminal Justice (Community Service) (Amendment) Act 2011 which requires judges, when imposing a sentence of 1 year or less, to consider a Community Service Order as an alternative to a custodial sentence and calls on the Minister for Justice and the Government to implement Fine Gael policy by providing for electronic tagging for high risk sex oenders on their release from prison to reduce the risk of reoending. Dublin South Constituency Executive Related motion: Dublin South East Constituency Executive 6. That this Ard Fheis calls on the Minister for Justice to review the consistency of sentencing for serious crimes as well as the prison or detention environment of such serious criminals. Boherbue Branch, Kerry North/West Limerick 7. That this Ard Fheis calls on the Government to ensure in this time of limited resources, that the Defence Force structures are modernised and that the Forces are organised in a way which allows them to best continue their important work at home and on overseas missions. Marley Branch, Dublin South 8. That this Ard Fheis calls on the Government to ensure that the Constitutional Convention prioritises an analysis of the proposals for same-sex marriage in Ireland. General Richard Mulcahy and Baldoyle/ Portmarnock Branch Related motion: DCU YFG
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9. That this Ard Fheis is conscious of the growing problem of identity theft and other threats online, and asks the Minister for Justice if he will act with urgency, to give certainty and clarity to the public, by way of legislating for the necessary aspects of the Budapest Convention on Cyber Crime. Grith Collins Branch, Dublin NC
IRISH LANGUAGE AND GAELTACHT 7. Aithnonn an Ard-Fheis seo gur cuid riachtanach dr gcultr agus dr n-oidhreacht an Ghaeilge, filtonn s roimh thiomantas an Rialtais athchiri iomln a dhanamh ar an mbealach ina mintear Gaeilge ag an mbunleibhal agus ag an menleibhal, le bim ar leith ar an nGaeilge labhartha, agus iarrann s ar an Rialtas tacaocht a thabhairt do thionscnaimh lasmuigh den Ghaeltacht chun sid na teanga a fhorbairt chun na haidhmeanna at leagtha amach sa Straitis 20 Blian don Ghaeilge a chur chun cinn. 7. This Ard Fheis recognises the Irish language as an essential part of our culture and heritage, welcomes the Governments undertaking to thoroughly reform the way that Irish is taught at primary and secondary level, with particular emphasis on spoken Irish, and calls on the Government to support initiatives outside of the Gaeltacht to develop the use of the language in order to progress aims set out in the 20 year strategy for the language. Swords Branch, Dublin North Related motion: DCU YFG 8. Iarrann an Ard Fheis seo ar an Rialtas tacaocht a thabhairt do chruth fostaochta sa Ghaeltacht tr infheisti in dars na Gaeltachta agus sna rims fuinnimh, leathan-bhanda agus uisce le deiseanna fostaochta a chur ar fil do chainteoir Gaeilge i gceantair Ghaeltachta. 8. This Ard Fheis calls on the Government to support job creation in the Gaeltacht through investment in dars na Gaeltachta and in energy, broadband and water in order to provide job opportunities for Irish speakers in Gaeltacht areas. Baile Bhuirne/Cuil Aodha Branch, Cork North West 9. Iarrann an Ard Fheis seo ar an Rialtas reachtaocht a thabhairt chun tosaigh a thabharfaidh sainmhni ar cheantair Ghaeltachta bunaithe ar ghnithe teangeolaochta agus go leagfaidh an Rialtas amach na critir at riachtanach le go mbaindh ceantar stdas Gaeltachta amach. 9. This Ard Fhes calls on the Government to bring forward legislation that will dene Gaeltacht areas based on linguistic considerations and set out the criteria required for an area to achieve Gaeltacht status. Barna/Furbo/Cois Fharraige Branch, Galway West
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Ray Butler TD
MEATH WEST
Rays career in politics began when he was elected to Trim Town Council in 2004, topping the poll. In 2009 he again topped the Town Council poll and also topped the Trim Area County Council poll with the highest percentage vote by an elected County Councillor in all of Meath. He was elected to the Dil in 2011. Ray sits on the Board of Management for three local schools. Ray is married to Marie and they have four children. He is also Chairman of the Trim St. Patricks Day Festival.
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Jerry Buttimer TD
CORK SOUTH CENTRAL
Jerry was born and raised in Bishopstown, Cork. He was elected to Seanad ireann in 2007 and to Dil ireann in 2011. A former secondary school teacher, Jerry was also Director of Adult Education in Ballincollig Community School. A former Chairperson of Bishopstown GAA Club, Jerry now acts as PRO for his native club. After the 2007 election, Jerry wrote a book called Candidate, a diary of an election candidate. Jerry also writes a weekly column for the Evening Echo newspaper.
Ciarn Cannon TD
GALWAY EAST
Ciarn was rst elected to Galway County Council in June 2004. Following the 2007 General Election, Ciarn was nominated to Seanad ireann. He was elected to the Dil in 2011. He is currently Minister for Training and Skills at the Department of Education and Skills. Ciarn has a strong interest in rural planning and has brought about many improvements to his own constituency. He is married to Niamh and they have one son. He also cycles 600 miles for the Irish Pilgrimage Trust every two years. Ciarn was also chosen as one of Galways People of the Year in 2002.
Paudie Coey TD
WATERFORD
Paudie was rst elected to Waterford County Council in 1999 and was reelected in 2004. During his time on Waterford County Council, Paudie was elected Deputy Mayor of Waterford. He was elected to Seanad ireann in 2007 before being elected to the 31st Dil in 2011. A keen GAA fan, Paudie coached the Under 21 Waterford hurling team. He also enjoys political biographies and his favourite book is Tony Blairs A journey: My political life.
ine Collins TD
CORK NORTH WEST
ine worked as an Accountant and Business consultant to a number of small and medium sized businesses in the south of the country before embarking on her political career. A long-term member of the Party and of the National Executive, ine was elected to the Dil in 2011, and represents the Cork North West constituency. Married to Paul, ine is mother to three children. She is a loyal Munster rugby fan and in her limited spare time, she enjoys cooking, reading and mountain walking.
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Sen Conlan TD
CAVAN/MONAGHAN
Sen is a native of Ballybay, Co. Monaghan. He rst joined Young Fine Gael during his student days in UCD. He is an Economics graduate. Sen is also a qualied solicitor and owns Conlans Bar on Main Street in Ballybay. He was rst elected to Ballybay Town Council in 2009 and was elected to the Dil in 2011. Sen is a member of Ballybay Economic Forum and is its representative on the County Development Board. In his spare time, Sen enjoys kayaking. He also enjoys listening to music and reading.
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Jim Daly TD
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Pat Deering TD
CARLOW/KILKENNY
Pat has been an active member of Fine Gael for the past 25 years. He was elected to Carlow County Council in 2009, where he served as Fine Gael Whip, before being elected to Dil ireann last year. He is the Chairman of Carlow County GAA Board and a member of the IFA. Pat also has his own a dairy farm. Father to two young children, Pat also has a huge interest in Irish history and his favourite historical gure is Michael Collins.
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Regina Doherty TD
MEATH EAST
Regina grew up in Dublin, but has lived in Ratoath for the past 15 years. She was educated at the College of Marketing and Design and prior to her election to the Dil, ran a successful ICT distrubtion business with her husband Declan. She was rst elected to Meath County Council in 2009 and is mother to four children, two boys and two girls. Regina also loves to sing and is a member of Ratoath Folk Group. She has also taken up BMXing, thanks to her children!
Paschal Donohoe TD
DUBLIN CENTRAL
Paschal was rst elected to Dublin City Council in 2007. He was elected to the Seanad in 2007 and was the Fine Gael Seanad Spokesperson on Transport. He was then elected to the Dil in 2011, topping the poll. He is a member of the Public Accounts Committee and Vice-Chair of the European Aairs Committee Paschal is a graduate of Trinity College Dublin, and was Sales and Marketing Director for a multinational company. Paschal lives in Phibsboro with his wife Justine and two children. He enjoys reading, theatre and visiting the Irish Museum of Modern Art.
Alan Farrell TD
DUBLIN NORTH
Alan rst became involved in politics at the age of 26 when he became one of the youngest Councillors to be elected to Fingal County Council, following a very short campaign in 2004. In 2007, Alan was elected Mayor of Fingal. He was re-elected in 2009, topping the poll in Malahide. Since being elected to the Dil, Alan was nominated by An Taoiseach to serve as Chairperson for the Fine Gael Committee on Public Expenditure and Reform. Alan is married to Emma and father to a baby son, Benjamin.
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Peter Fitzpatrick TD
LOUTH
Peter was elected to the Dil in 2011. He is a native of Dundalk and has lived there all his life. Peter is the Gaelic football manager for the Louth GAA team. He has a long association with the team, having played senior football for Louth from 1980 until 1996, during which time he captained the team for ve years. He also played for Dundalk Football Club in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Peter is married to Ann and they have three grown-up children. Unsurprisingly for a sportsman, Peter is a big Russell Crowe fan and his favourite lm is Gladiator!
Brendan Grin TD
KERRY SOUTH
A native of Keel, Brendans career in politics began when he was elected to Kerry County Council in 2009. Before being elected to the Dil in 2011, Brendan worked in the pub trade and as a teacher. He is married to Risn and they have one dog, Paddy. Brendan is a big sports fan and plays GAA with Keel and soccer with Mainbank Soccer Club. One of his favourite movies is The Shawshank Redemption.
Noel Harrington TD
CORK SOUTH WEST
Noel was rst elected to Cork County Council in 1999. He was subsequently re-elected in 2004 and 2009. He also contested the Seanad election in 2007 before being elected to the Dil last year. Noel lives in Castletownbere with his wife Catherine and three children. One of Noels claims to fame is that he played half back on Bearas Cork County Senior Championship winning team in 1997! During winter months Noel can be found on the oche throwing darts for the local team. He also has a keen interest in local history.
Simon Harris TD
WICKLOW
Simon was elected to Wicklow County Council in 2009 and received the highest percentage vote of any County Councillor in the country. He was also elected to Greystones Town Council. He was elected to the Dil in 2011 at the age of 24, and is the youngest member of the 31st Dil. Simon rst got involved in community and political life when he founded an Autism charity in County Wicklow called The Wicklow Triple A Alliance, to oer support and advice to families dealing with Autism. Simon was honoured to nominate Enda Kenny as Taoiseach, on his rst ever day in the Dil.
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Martin Heydon TD
KILDARE SOUTH
Martin Heydon is a native of Kilcullen in County Kildare and a graduate of Kildalton Agricultural College. His career in politics began when joined Fine Gael in 2008 - he was then elected to Kildare County Council in 2009. With a proven track record in working for his community, Martin was elected to the Dil in 2011. A big football fan, Martin has played a key role at Ocer level in his local football club, St. Lawrences, for the past 10 years.
Heather Humphreys TD
CAVAN/MONAGHAN
Heathers political career began in 2003 when she was co-opted onto Monaghan County Council to replace Seymour Crawford in the Clones electoral area. She was elected on the Council in 2004 and topped the poll in the 2009 Local Elections. She was elected Mayor of Monaghan in 2009 before being elected to the Dil last year. Heather is married with two children and lives on a farm in Aghabog, Co. Monaghan. Before politics, Heather had a successful career in nancial services and was the Manager of Cootehill Credit Union. Heather is an accomplished piano player and her favourite book is Showtime by Pat Leahy.
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Derek Keating TD
DUBLIN MID WEST
Derek was rst elected to South Dublin County Council in 1999 and was reelected in 2004 and 2009. He was elected to the Dil in 2011. Derek has been a very active charity worker in his constituency for a number of years and is a Director of Pieta House, a centre of prevention for suicide, along with the Lucan Disability Action Group and Lucan Home Start. He also founded and co-ordinates the Lucan Chernobyl Childrens Appeal. Derek likes to play the guitar and loves the music of The Beatles and James Taylor. He is married to ine and they have two grown up daughters.
Sen Kyne TD
GALWAY WEST
Sen Kyne represented Connemara on Galway County Council from 2004 until he was elected to the Dil in 2011. He is a graduate of NUIG and UCD and worked as an agricultural consultant in Moycullen. He is one of seven children and enjoys reading history books and biographies.
Anthony Lawlor TD
KILDARE NORTH
Anthony was born and raised in Johnstown, Naas. He attended Newbridge College and is a graduate of Multyfarnham Agricultural College, UCD and NUI Maynooth. Anthony worked as a voluntary community worker overseas for two years. On his return to Ireland, he worked as a substitute teacher before working as a full-time farmer. Anthonys late mother Patsy was a Councillor, and after her death in 1998, Anthony was co-opted onto Kildare County Council. He was elected in 1999 and again in 2009. He was elected to the Dil in 2011.
Peter Mathews TD
DUBLIN SOUTH
Peter was rst elected to the Dil in 2011 having had a high prole career in banking. He was a leading critic of the last governments banking policy and the banks themselves. He studied Commerce in UCD. He qualied as a Chartered Accountant and worked for Coopers & Lybrand (now PwC) and ICC. Peter is a former President of the Gonzaga Past Pupils Union and has also served on the Board of St. Marys N.S in Donnybrook. Peter is married to Susan and they live in Mount Merrion. He has four children. He is a big jazz fan!
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Nicky McFadden TD
LONGFORD/WESTMEATH
Before being elected to the Dil in 2011, Nicky was a member of Seanad ireann. Prior to that she had served on both Athlone Town Council and Westmeath County Council. She worked as a medical secretary for nine years before embarking on her political career. Nicky is a member of the governing body of Athlone IT. She was also a member of Westmeath VEC and is director of a number of local organisations including Athlone e-com and Athlone Community Task Force. Nicky has two children and says her political hero is John Hume. Her dream portfolio would be Social Protection.
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Tony McLoughlin TD
SLIGO/NORTH LEITRIM
Tony was rst elected to Sligo County Council in the mid-1970s and has served as Mayor of Sligo on four occasions. He is married to Paula and father to three grown-up children. Tony hails from a strong Fine Gael family and his father Pat served on Sligo Borough Council. His Uncle Johnny was a TD for Fine Gael in Sligo/Leitrim from 1961 to 1977. Tony is an avid sports fan and apart from supporting his home team, Sligo Rovers, he also tries to get to see Manchester United play once a season.
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Michelle Mulherin TD
MAYO
Michelle Mulherins political career began in 1999, when she was elected to Ballina Town Council. She also served as a Mayo County Councillor from 2004 before being elected to the Dil in 2011. Michelle was educated locally in Ballina and is also a graduate of UCD and The Law Society of Ireland. Michelle is very involved with Amateur Dramatics in Ballina and has played a number of roles, most memorably Kate in Dancing at Lughnasa. She is also a massive Johnny Cash fan and has been known to give her own rendition of Walk the Line!
Dara Murphy TD
Eoghan Murphy TD
DUBLIN SOUTH EAST
In 2009, Eoghan was elected to Dublin City Council to represent the PembrokeRathmines ward. He was elected to the 31st Dil in 2011. Upon his election to Dublin City Council, he left his job as a speechwriter at the nuclear test-ban treaty commission in Vienna to dedicate himself full-time to politics in Ireland. Eoghan studied English and Philosophy (BA) in UCD, and International relations (MA) in Kings College London. In his spare time, Eoghan enjoys watching rugby, reading and adventure racing.
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Patrick ODonovan TD
LIMERICK
Patrick was rst elected to Limerick County Council in June 2004, topping the poll at the age of 27 while also working as an industrial chemist. By the time he was re-elected in 2009, Patrick had qualied as a Primary School teacher. He was elected to the Dil in 2011. Patrick has a long association with Fine Gael and was also President of Young Fine Gael. He was also elected the youngest Fine Gael Council Group Leader in Ireland, in recognition for his reputation as a ghter on tough issues.
Joe OReilly TD
CAVAN/MONAGHAN
Joe began his working life as a Primary School Teacher. He was rst elected to the Seanad in 1989 before being elected for a second time in 2007. He was appointed Fine Gael Spokesperson in the Seanad on Communications, Energy and Natural resources in October 2007. Joe was then elected to Dil ireann in 2011. Joe founded the Bailieborough Mental Health Association and was also Chairman. He also enjoys stand-up comedy.
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Brian Walsh TD
GALWAY WEST
Brian Walsh was elected to Galway County Council in 2004 and was Mayor of Galway City from 2005-2006. He is a graduate of GMIT, where he was President of the Students Union. After graduating, Brian worked in Financial Services and ran his own Financial Management business for 12 years. Married with one daughter, Brian is a huge sports fan and played for his local club, Mervue GAA in his youth. He is also partial to the odd Chinese takaway while watching a comedy movie anything with Will Ferrell gets a thumbs up!