Multiple roles for Sherlock in trimmed down Labour
SHERLOCK WILL BE SPOKESPERSON ON SOCIAL PROTECTION; RURAL/COMMUNITY AFFAIRS; AGRICULTURE AND THE MARINE
LABOUR Party TD for Cork East Sean Sherlock has been appointed as his party’s spokesperson on Social Protection, Rural and Community Affairs and the Islands, along with Agriculture and the Marine
“The Department of Social Protection touches all families in some way throughout their lives. Labour has a policy outlook that ensures that no one person falls below a social net that pushes them further into poverty,” said Deputy Sherlock.
“This is a vulnerable time for many, and the Social Protection system has to work for them and not against them. We must continue to advocate for those who feel marginalised. The days of secure employment are uncertain, but support for those who need must be enhanced. The system must work for all without exception.”
The Mallow-based deputy went on to speak about his role as the Labour Party spokesperson on agriculture.
“This is a most challenging time for those involved in the agriculture and forestry sector. I look forward to being an advocate for farmers and helping them to negotiate the challenges faced by climate change,” he said.
“There’s a balance to be struck between ensuring productivity and secure farm incomes and meeting our climate-change obligations. Farmers have to be a part of that just transition and should not be left behind.
“I’ve argued for that on the Climate Action Committee. My appointment as spokesperson is a continuation of that work.
“I look forward to reaching out to the farming organisations in the coming weeks,” he added.
Deputy Sherlock was also appointed Chair of the Parliamentary Labour Party.
First co-opted onto Mallow Town Council and Cork County Council in 2003, Sherlock was first elected to the Dáil in 2007. Since then he has held two junior ministries in two separate coalition governments.
Labour now has six seats in the Dáil, its lowest number ever.