An Taoiseach Micheál Martin has appointed Carlow–Kilkenny TD Peter ‘Chap’ Cleere as Fianna Fáil spokesperson for Rural Affairs, in addition to his current role as the party’s spokesperson for agriculture.
Deputy Cleere said he had spoken with the Taoiseach and thanked him for the opportunity, adding that he looks forward to playing his part in working towards delivering the Programme for Government commitments to revitalise rural Ireland.
Speaking following his appointment, Deputy Cleere said:
“Coming from rural Skeoughvosteen in Kilkenny, the issues facing rural communities are very close to me, so it is an honour to take on the role of Fianna Fáil spokesperson for Rural Affairs.
“Rural Ireland is the heart of our country, from our farms and small businesses to the communities that keep our towns and villages alive. My focus will be on supporting farmers, strengthening rural services and ensuring people can live and work in the communities they grew up in.
“When rural Ireland does well the whole country does well. It is essential that rural Ireland remains at the forefront of national policy. My job will be to make sure rural voices are heard loudly in Dublin and that decisions taken in Leinster House work for people on the ground.
“To put it simply, decisions made in Dublin must work for people in rural Ireland.”
Deputy Cleere also said he looked forward to working alongside his Seanad colleague, Imelda Goldsboro, who serves as Fianna Fáil’s Seanad spokesperson on Rural Affairs.
“Imelda understands the issues facing rural Ireland and has consistently raised them within the party over the past year.
“To ensure we deliver the best outcomes for rural Ireland we need a strong voice in both the Dáil and the Seanad, ensuring people in rural communities know they are heard at the highest levels.”
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