Carlow/Kilkenny candidates win seats in Seanad Éireann

TWO Carlow/Kilkenny candidates in the recent general election have secured their place in the country’s upper house with a flourish.

Former Green Party minister Malcolm Noonan topped the poll on the agricultural panel to take a seat in Seanad Éireann, while Social Democrats candidate Patricia Stephenson was also elected, becoming the party’s first-ever senator.

“To say that being elected as one of the first SocDem senators yesterday is an honour is an understatement. I’m incredibly excited to now be a senator for the labour panel in the Seanad and I’m looking forward to working hard to playing a key role in the legislative process of this country,” said Patricia.

The Belfast native has been living between Castlecomer and Old Leighlin for a number of years.

“Much like everything in life, everything is easier with teamwork and I’d like to thank my colleagues at the Social Democrats for their unwavering support and belief in me. In particular, Catherine Murphy has been hugely inspiring, offering sage advice along the way and I’m delighted to be contributing to another chapter in the story of her and Róisín Shortall’s mission to offer people in Ireland a progressive, forward-thinking party focused on delivering meaningful change for the country,” added Patricia.

Senator Noonan promised to “work as a senator as hard as I did as a TD and minister, for nature, for people and communities and across politics for a safe, durable future for all living things”.

“I’m honoured to have been elected to Seanad Éireann, topping the poll in the agricultural panel,” he said.

“The hospitality shown me on the campaign trail by councillors, TDs and outgoing senators was uplifting. I am most grateful for votes and preference votes from across the political divide.

“Finally, I wish to thank my wife Jennie and our truly amazing children Colm, Tristan, Stephen and Kitty and my family, friends and supporters,” said Malcolm.