Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I join with those in wishing former Deputy Phil Hogan well in his new role as European Commissioner for Agriculture. I also want to wish all the candidates in this election well, no matter what party or grouping they are standing for. I am familiar with the Aylward, Crotty, Fitzgerald and Noonan families, and the contribution they have made over the years. I wish them well and hope they continue to make that contribution, albeit not in the Oireachtas.

This is a historic election for Renua and is our first electoral contest. Patrick McKee is our first candidate. The people of Carlow-Kilkenny can make history by electing what would be the youngest Member of the Dáil and the first representative elected for Renua. He is an energetic, committed and idealistic candidate. I have every confidence that people in the constituency will respond to the challenge and elect Patrick McKee on what will be a historic day on 22 May.

Carlow-Kilkenny is a wonderful part of the country centred on three sister rivers, the Barrow, Nore and Suir. I lived in Kilkenny myself for a while and have a great affinity with it. Fortunately a piece of Carlow is in my constituency.

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