This article is from page 9 of the 2011-06-14 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 9 JPG
DESPITE the landmark achievement of returning three government TDs to the Fine Gael/Labour coalition in the February 25 election, Clare was the only county along the western seaboard to be ignored for either full ministerial or minister of state status in the new administration.
However, 100 days into the government, the county has finally received recognition thanks to a number of key appointments made by Taoiseach Enda Kenny. Fine Gale deputies Joe Carey and Pat Breen have been appointed Assistant-Chief Whip and chairman of the Oireachtas Committee on Foreign Affairs & Trade respectively.
“This role will ensure I have daily contact with An Taoiseach and Government ministers in relation to legislation and co-ordinating debates in the Dáil,” Deputy Carey told The Clare People after his appointment.
“My role will be most important, especially as tough decisions need to be made in the months and years ahead. It will also allow me to develop and enhance strong relationships with all Ministers and I will endeavour to use that influence and insight to the benefit of the people of County Clare.
“I will also have responsibility for monitoring Senate legislation entering Dáil Éireann. The role of the Whip is to have strong relationships with deputies and ministers and to ensure the smooth operation of Government in its highest capacity. I believe my appointment is recognition of the inter-personal skills which I have developed over the years,” he added.
“Restoring Ireland’s international reputation is a top priority for our Government,” said Deputy Breen after his promotion to a key Oireachtas committee that carries with it an extra salary of € 10,000 per annum.
“The Taoiseach has entrusted me with the responsibility for driving and formulating Fine Gael policy in this area. I will be making it clear that the message that Ireland is open for business must be communicated all over the world and that our Corporation Tax rate is not up for discussion,” added Deputy Breen who cut his teeth in foreign affairs as a member of the Council of Europe.
Labour’s Michael McNamara has also been also appointed to a position on the Dáil Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade, as well as to a place on the Committee on Communications, Natural Resources and Agriculture.
In addition to his assistant-chief whip duties, Deputy Carey has been appointed to the Committee on Procedure and Privileges, while Fianna Fáíl’s transport spokesperson, Deputy Timmy Dooley has been appointed to the Committee on Environment, Transport, Culture and the Gaeltacht.