About Emer

My Background.

My political path began during my teenage years, initially taking shape through my involvement in the student council in Holy Family Community School Rathcoole, and further developed during my time the University College Dublin Student Union. Here, not only did I expand my academic and professional horizons, but I also took on the responsibility of later serving on UCD’s Governing Authority.

I was elected a TD for Dublin Mid West in the 2020 General Election and I was appointed Minister of State with responsibility for Business, Employment and Retail in the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment in 2024 and now I serve as Minister of State for Public Procurement, Digitalisation and eGovernment.

Previously, I worked as Chief of Staff for PayPal's Customer Service division in Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), bringing over a decade of corporate expertise to the table working with both Small and Medium Size Businesses (SMEs) and Multinational Companies.

From 2011 to 2020, I had the privilege of serving as a Councillor on the South Dublin County Council, representing the vibrant communities of Palmerstown, Lucan, Clondalkin, Newcastle, Saggart and Rathcoole and I also spent 5 years working with Frances Fitzgerald MEP during her time as both a Senator and a Minister.

In 2021, I introduced the Irish Corporate Governance (Gender Balance) Bill, which aims to ensure Irish companies achieve significant gender balance on their boards, fostering a more inclusive business environment. This Bill has received Government support and is now at Second Stage in Dáil Éireann.

I am a strong advocate for women in education and business, having collaborated with the Women in Business Network with the Local Enterprise Office to aid women entrepreneurs. I have led the Fine Gael group on the Council and chaired the “Land-use, Planning and Transport” Strategic Policy Committee of South Dublin County Council.

Before being appointed Minister, my work varied across Oireachtas Committees, including Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Disability Matters, Public Petitions, and Special Committees Assisted Dying and International Surrogacy.

I was honoured to represent Ireland at the United Nations where I had the opportunity to outline Ireland’s position on Gaza and support for UNRWA, which is something I am passionate about having spent time in Palestine.

My Priorities.

Supporting Business

As the Minister of State at the Department of Children, Disability and Equality, my role carries special responsability for Disability.

My Local Leadership and Representation

From 2011 to 2020, I had the privilege of serving as a Councillor on the South Dublin County Council, representing the communities of Palmerstown, Lucan, Clondalkin, Newcastle, Saggart and Rathcoole.

Political Mentorship Experience

My journey in politics has been greatly influenced by my time working alongside Frances Fitzgerald, where I served as her political assistant for five years. This role afforded me a comprehensive insight into the workings of both national and local government, enriching my perspective and approach to public service.

Commitment to Community Initiatives

I am deeply committed to supporting the families and businesses within our constituency. My efforts have spanned a wide range of issues, from improving bus services and community facilities to advocating for better nursing homes, road improvements, and securing more school places.

I helped develop a Twinning Agreement with Tampa, Florida, and supported community groups to deliver a €3m investment for a museum at the Round Tower, Clondalkin. I am also proud to be a founding member of the Four Districts Fun Day, an initiative that brings our community together in celebration and solidarity and Darkness into Light Lucan & Corkagh Park.

Inclusion Efforts

Inclusion is a cornerstone of my work, from promoting accessible parks and libraries for those with additional needs to actively campaigning for marriage equality. I was also involved in rolling out PayPal's Diversity and Inclusion training and employee engagement strategy, underscoring my commitment to fostering an environment of equality and diversity.