A long-standing member of Fine Gael, he was first elected to Dáil Éireann in 1981, lost his seat in 1982, regained it again in 1982 and has been a TD since. He is a former Fine Gael chief whip, as well as Minister of State for Social Welfare and has held numerous other front bench portfolios throughout his political career.

I have helped people for the past five years and I can continue making a positive difference for the people in the times ahead in the continued economic recovery.

One of my biggest priorities is to resolve the housing crisis both in Kildare and nationwide.

Continue to try to influence how the ongoing recovery can benefit everyone particularly with regards to the provision of health and other services.