Martin Kenny, Sinn Fein TD for the Sligo Leitrim constituency, has been appointed to the role of Sinn Fein spokesperson on agriculture and food.
Kenny replaces Kerry North-West Limerick TD Martin Ferris who is to remain in the portfolio but with a focus on fisheries.
He lives in Aughavas Co Leitrim with his wife Helen and four children. He has been a member of Leitrim County Council for over 10 years and is a member of Sinn Féin’s Ard Chomhairle.
Upon his appointment, Kenny said that his constituency is one of those rural areas which has suffered from neglect and discrimination over the terms of successive governments.
“I have often said that we in Sligo, Leitrim, Cavan and Donegal are the first to feel recession and the last to feel recovery and that is the case now.
“I will be fighting hard within my new portfolio to defend rural Ireland, to make the Irish countryside vibrant and productive again and to fight the scourge of emigration.”
When the farmer is profitable, the rural community is vibrant and we have to make sure that the primary producer is rewarded for their effort.
“I am very happy that I will be working with Deputy Martin Ferris who will remain within the portfolio, focussing on fisheries, and whose years of experience and knowledge will help me find my feet in my new role.”
