Co-opted first onto Cork County Council in 2003, he was re-elected in 2004 and served until he was elected as a TD in 2007. A sitting TD since, he is the current Minister of State with special responsibility for Trade Promotion, Development and North South Co-Operation and is a former party spokesperson on agriculture and food.

I have shown real political leadership in three key departments - enterprise, education & foreign affairs. I know what it takes to deliver.

Achieve full employment by 2020. Build more social houses. Deliver better road, community & sporting infrastructure. Enhance quality of life.

To see implementation of specific plans for social housing programme, a 2016 action plan for job creation leading to the goal of full employment.