Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire

Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire TD tells us about his 2020 plans and looks back at 2019.

 

Main goals for 2020?

As education spokesperson, I also want to ensure that better supports for special educational needs are higher up the political agenda.

 

Hopes for Cork for 2020?

Liam, Sam and the League of Ireland to return to Cork; hope springs eternal! Politically I would like to see much more ambitious development in public transport. If we are serious about Cork being the fastest growing city in Ireland, we need better and more reliable public transport.

 

Most looking forward to in 2020?

Just the general mood of being able to start things fresh, take new initiatives, try things in new ways - the New Year is great for possibilities!

 

Any resolutions?

Try to run more I think, I used to like running a lot, but haven’t managed to fit it in as much in the last year or two.

 

Was 2019 a good year for you?

October 2019 saw the birth of my son Fiach, so for me, Eimear and Fiach’s brother Sé, that will always be what we remember.

 

Major highlight in 2019?

I got the Government to agree to my proposals for sentencing guidelines for criminal offences. There is no basis in legislation for guidelines like that at the minute, but we managed to get that changed. It has passed now, and it will take time for it to come in to effect, but in the long run I think it will lead to fairer more consistent sentences, and I am proud to have delivered that.

 

Events to look out for in 2020?

Well we will certainly have an election, though I don’t know if that something people will look forward to! I am still hopeful Ireland can get to Euro 2020, and if that happens, I hope Mick McCarthy gives some of our very talented younger players a run out!

 

Cork individuals to look out for in 2020?

Adam Idah (soccer player) looks a massively promising player, I think we will hear a lot more about him this year.