An independent councillor since 1999, Roche joined the Social Democrats in 2022 and is a party candidate for Waterford in the general election. Before entering politics, she worked in communications, running a PR company.

I believe if you want any influence in national politics, you have to be part of a team. Waterford has been stymied by successive Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael governments, I believe the Social Democrats have the pragmatism to deliver proper regional development. I am loud enough, bold enough and dedicated enough to fight that corner with them.

Housing is by far the number one thing coming up on the doorsteps. Long term, we need to deliver affordable purchase, rental and social homes. In the short term, we need proper protection for renters, to ensure homes don’t lie empty by increasing the vacancy tax to 10%, and a three-year rent freeze.

Disabled people and their families have been worn down shouting into the void. Given the chance I'd like to use that speaking time to air some of their issues and be in a position to start changing the literally disgraceful abandonment of them and their loved ones.