I have been involved in politics all my adult life, from student activism and union representation to my work as a public representative. I've been guided all the way through by a strong sense of justice and the need to build, here in Ireland, a truly Fair Society. I am proud to have represented Dublin South-West in the Dáil since 1989, retaining my seat in each election since, and hope for your continued support this time around.

During my time in politics, I have been privileged to serve as a TD, a Minister of State (for Commerce, Science and Technology from 1994-1997) and, from 2002-2007, as Leader of the Labour Party. Since stepping aside as Leader, I have served as Labour's Spokesperson on Justice and have continued to play an active role in the party, in the Dáil and in Dublin South-West. In March 2011 I was appointed Minister for Energy, Communications & Natural Resources.

I have witnessed many changes in this constituency since I was first elected - from the construction of the M50, Tallaght IT and the Square to the arrival of the Luas. I have played a positive role in securing jobs and infrastructure for the area. I established the Local Drugs Task Forces in 1996 to address the scourge of drugs on a community basis, and have stood with local communities for almost 30 years through honest and effective representation.

You can find out more in our "What We Stand For" section above, but if you have any comments or questions, please don't hesitate to get in touch. In particular, we are always delighted to welcome new members and supporters to our Labour team in Dublin South West.