Tánaiste Leo Varadkar appoints Senator Maria Byrne as Fine Gael Seanad Spokesperson on Finance

Senator Maria Byrne has been appointed as the Fine Gael Seanad Spokesperson on Finance by An Tánaiste Leo Varadkar.

Speaking following today’s announcement, An Tánaiste Leo Varadkar said, “I’m delighted to appoint Senator Byrne as the Fine Gael Finance Spokesperson. Senator Byrne will bring over two decades of experience in elected politics to the role, as well as the first-hand insight and knowledge of being a small business owner herself.

“The past 18 months brought enormous financial challenges for many individuals, families and businesses. Our focus now in Fine Gael is ensuring that business can not only reopen but stay open so that people can get back to work and enjoy a higher quality of life than pre-pandemic.

“We need a Finance Spokesperson who will champion our enterprises and ensure that Irish people have the security of sustainable jobs and businesses into the future. Senator Byrne will work to do just that.”

Senator Maria Byrne said, “Having grown up in a family business and then going on to own my own shop and newsagents myself, I know very well the challenges and opportunities being a small business owner can bring.

“My focus as Finance Spokesperson will be ensuring that Irish businesses have the financial support and structures they require to remain viable in the long-term. Supporting our businesses will protect and create jobs and provide new opportunities for our young people. I look forward to working towards ensuring a higher quality of living for Irish workers and families as we emerge from the pandemic.

“I’ve had a keen interest in public management and finances for decades, having served on Limerick City and County Council for 17 years, during which time I worked closely with the Limerick Chamber of Commerce and business representative organisations.

“While I currently hold a higher diploma in Local Government and Public Management, I am also studying for a Masters in the area at the moment. Public finances is one of my main areas of study and I look forward to bringing this knowledge, as well as my experience, to the new role.”

Leader of the Seanad Senator Regina Doherty welcomed today’s appointment, saying, “Since her re-election to Seanad Éireann last April, Senator Byrne has worked tirelessly on a range of issues in the Seanad.

“I look forward to following her contributions in her new role as Finance Spokesperson and I’m confident she will work hard to create new opportunities for our young people, improve standard of living for families across the country and ensure our indigenous businesses survive not only the months ahead, but most importantly, the years to come,” concluded Senator Doherty.