Alice-Mary Higgins seeking Seanad nod from Wexford
INDEPENDENT Senator Alice-Mary Higgins had a great tour guide as she launched her Seanad re-election campaign in the model county last week, in the form of Mayor George Lawlor, who has given her his endorsement.
The daughter of President Michael D Higgins, Alice-Mary is also a niece of Wexford Dr Paddy Kiernan who spoke glowingly of her.
‘It gives me great pleasure to support Alice-Mary Higgins’ candidacy for the National University Panel of Seanad Éireann,’ he said. ‘She has done tremendous work over a number of years and shows real dedication to the role.’
Seeking election to the NUI panel, the Galway native will be hoping to draw in significant support in the model county. Cllr George Lawlor believes her to be an excellent candidate.
‘I have known and admired Alice Mary Higgins for many years,’ he said. ‘Prior to her excellent work in Seanad Éireann she was a leading, progressive voice on the ground in many areas such as the Older & Bolder Alliance, Trócaire and Comhlámh Anti -Racism. I’m delighted to support her campaign for re-election to Seanad Éireann.’
Alice-Mary first won her seat in 2016, becoming the first woman elected to the NUI panel in 35 years, having previously worked with NGOs and she has a further connection with Wexford in that she worked on a project run by Wexford Local Development to support unemployed youth in the county.
‘When I was elected in 2016, I promised to bring care, creativity and long-term thinking into the heart of political debate,’ she said. ‘That approach will be more important then ever in the next Seanad. I am ambitious for action on equality, environment and a rights-based approach to public services. I will also continue to press for pension and pay equality and the proper recognition of care.’