Profile

A keen cyclist, I am pushing for a Cycle Route for Athlone

From Athlone, I am married to Lisa with 4 children: Luke 7, Sarah 5, James 3 and our latest addition Scott.

I went to secondary school at the Marist College and then to the Athlone Institute of Technology, graduating in 1990. Having worked overseas for 2 years and then for a total of 14 years in Dublin, I returned to Athlone in 2005 to set up my own business.

Snap Printing in Athlone was established in July 2005 and is now a significant part of the Largest Print & Design group in Ireland. Our Group employs 135 people nationwide and does business with 70% of Irelands top 1000 companies.

In 2008 – 2009 I had the great honour of serving as President of Athlone Chamber of Commerce. I have been a keen supporter of and participant in the TriAthlone.  I am and have been involved in a number fundraising events for local deserving charities and community initiatives.

In July 2008 I undertook to raise €20,000 for our new Hospice in Athlone by competing in the TriAthlone.

I have a punishing golf handicap of 14 - I play 5 times a year! I enjoy all sports but particularly soccer, I played soccer in Dublin for 10 years with VEC in Terrenure before returning to Athlone in 2005. However, hobbies have taken a back seat since our 4 children came along.

I come from a family steeped in politics: my Mother, Uncle and two cousins have all held ministerial cabinet positions. Our house in Arcadia was for as long as I can remember a clinic, always with the key in the front door.

I have seen the tremendous work that can be done through political life and now I believe given my broad life experience that I too can deliver for my town, Athlone.