Mary Butler - Fianna Fáil
On the 8th of February I will be contesting the general election for the Fianna Fáil party in Waterford. I was first elected to the 32nd Dáil 4 years ago, and I operate a constituency office in Waterford City, and in Dungarvan. I am also the only TD who holds regular advice clinics throughout the county, from Tallow, Lismore, Cappoquin, through to Ballymacarbry, Kilmacthomas, Portlaw and Tramore. I believe that it is very important that I, as a public representative am available to meet people who want to meet me. I would like to thank everyone who supported me in 2016, who have supported me for the last four years, and those who will support me going forward.
I have a strong grounding in the retail sector having worked as both an employee and an employer. I successfully ran a family business, a grocery shop in Portlaw for 17 years, and continued my career working in John Martin Jewellers in Waterford City for 10 years with my sister Dolores.
I was honoured to be asked to Chair the Oireachtas Committee on Business Enterprise and Innovation, which scrutinizes many pieces of very important legislation and has produced many reports in relation to the cost of doing business, Brexit and apprenticeships among others. I feel that my practical experience in retail gives me strong grounding for this role.
I am Fianna Fáil Spokesperson for Older People and Public Health Promotion, an area I am passionate about. I work closely with the Alzheimer’s Society, Age Action, Nursing Homes Ireland and the Carers Association as well as many others. I also Chair the All Party Oireachtas Group on Dementia, raising awareness for people with memory difficulties as they grow older. I have produced several pieces of legislation in relation to Fair Deal and Mandatory Sentencing for crimes against Older People.
I have worked very hard with my colleagues in Waterford in relation to improved and enhanced cardiac services at University Hospital Waterford, in relation to a Technological University for the South East, the North Quays, and a free functioning airport in Waterford. But, most importantly I have worked for you, the people. Whether it is in relation to children with special needs who need support, or our older generation who cannot get the correct wrap around supports, or an agricultural or fisheries issue. People are faced with so many problems every day, but health, housing and homelessness are the big issues which I am dealing with every day of the week.
So, if you, the people of Waterford want me to continue working for you, I would ask you to come out on the 8th of February and vote Mary Butler Number 1.
