Political Platform: Terence Flanagan TD
Independent Fine Gael TD Terence Flanagan was elected to Dáil Éireann for Dublin North East in 2007 on his first attempt. He was re-elected in 2011 on the first count, topping the poll. He lost the Fine Gael Whip in July over his vote against the Protection of Life During Pregnancy Bill 2013.
How did your interest in politics begin?
My interest in politics began at a young age, watching the news and current affairs programmes at home with my family. Although my parents were never involved in a political party, they were always interested in the affairs of the State and very aware of the effect that politics had on their day-to-day lives.
I remember watching the great debates of the 1980s between Charles Haughey and Garret Fitzgerald. The country was buzzing with lively discussion about who was the better politician and which party had the best policies and the best supporters. In early 2000, I became more interested in politics as it was impossible for young people to purchase a home and the Government was failing young people. Minister Richard Bruton was our local TD and we as a family were always impressed with his intelligence, integrity and hardworking nature. It was a party in which we could see our own values reflected and championed.
Rather than simply give out about the Government, I joined Fine Gael so that my views would be heard and that I might be able to contribute to making things better. With the ending of the dual mandate, the opportunity arose for me to run for Richard’s seat on Dublin City Council and I was elected by the people in the 2004 local elections. In 2007, I got the opportunity to run for Dáil Eireann and to my great surprise I was elected.
What is unique (or distinctive) about Dublin North East?
The people are decent, honest and hard-working and they have enormous pride in their communities, their county and their country. A large part of the constituency is based on the coast and there are the most beautiful views overlooking Dublin Bay. There is nothing I enjoy more than being by the sea on sunny days. Northsiders have a great sense of humour and are very self-deprecating. I’m a proud Northsider and I’m honoured to be representing the area.
What are your main priorities for the rest of the Oireachtas term?
I will continue to work hard on behalf of my constituents in Dublin North East who elected me and continue to support me. The main problem facing the country is still unemployment and I will continue to support key national objectives to ensure that the conditions are created to get people back to work and to reduce emigration.
Mortgage arrears, personal debt and mortgage debt are still huge issues that remain unresolved. There are lots of struggling families out there whose lives are on hold because of the sheer pressure of having to make mortgage repayments that they cannot afford and I don’t think that is right.
Banks that have been bailed out by the taxpayer need to create more realistic repayment plans for people who are struggling and they need to fully engage with mortgage holders about any problems they are experiencing. At present, banks are not adequately addressing the debt issue and families are not able to see any end to their mortgage problems. This is something that needs to be urgently addressed.
What do you consider to be your main achievements to date as a TD?
I have worked hard for my constituents at all times. I like to be available and approachable to my constituents and I canvas door-to-door in the constituency on a weekly basis. There is a great variety to that work, and while it may not make the headlines, it is no less valuable for that. I am proud of the fact that my constituents see me as being accessible and very present in the area.
I have served as Chairman of the Fine Gael Finance Committee and have sat on the Transport and Communications Committee, recently considering important national issues such as alcohol sponsorship of sporting events and the negative effects of online social networking. As Fine Gael’s Housing Spokesperson, before the 2011 election, I raised the issue of pyrite in housing and brought attention to the fact that some housing built during the boom years was not fire-compliant.
Looking ahead to 2020, what is your vision for Ireland?
My main hope is to see a fairer and more equal society, where those seeking employment will have the opportunity to find work to enable them to provide adequately for their families. I hope too that our health system will be restructured and there will be less delay for those waiting for operations and to be seen by consultants.
How do you relax in your free time?
Working as a TD is often a 24/7 job and I don’t get that much down-time. The boundaries of my own constituency are changing at the next election when the two constituencies of Dublin North East and Dublin North Central merge to become a new five-seater constituency called Dublin Bay North. Some of my spare time is spent familiarising myself with the new area as I hope to stand as a candidate when the next general election is called.
When I do have time to myself I enjoy walking on the Summit in Howth or through St Anne’s Park. I am a member of the Artane Senior Band (formerly a member of the Artane Boys’ Band) and enjoy playing the percussion when I get the chance.
I also enjoy attending GAA matches in Croke Park, especially when Dublin, Mayo or Roscommon are playing (my parents are from the west). It’s also nice to enjoy a night out in the city every now and again with friends or to catch a film at the cinema.
