Tánaiste Micheál Martin on whistle-stop tour of South Kildare

Visits Kildare town, Newbridge and Curragh Plains

Tánaiste Micheál Martin paid a whistle-stop tour of South Kildare this week. 

The Fianna Fáil leader was joined by Senator Fiona O'Loughlin as he visited Newbridge, Kildare town and the Curragh Plains. 

Senator O'Loughlin said the Tánaiste was delighted to see the murals of St Brigid in Kildare town. 

Senator O'Loughlin said: "The Tanaiste spoke about the importance of strong women, resilience and endurance as espoused by Brigid, and the importance of these in political life. after all he was the Taoiseach that gave us the extra Bank Holiday marking St Brigid's Day."

Mr Martin also met local people in a walkabout in Kildare town and discussed priorities like housing and education.

In Kildare town, he spoke to Paul Lenehan of Firecastle to discuss the cost of doing business and challenges facing the hospitality sector.

The Tanaiste who is also Minister for Defence had the opportunity to speak to former and serving Army personnel in Moloney's pub in Newbridge where he also got to view some Army memorabilia.

He also had a sneak preview of the redeveloped St Conleth's Park in Newbridge and was impressed with how quickly the work was done.

Mr Martin also took a walk in the Curragh Plains and gave his full support for Senator O'Loughlin's proposed legislation to stop illegal encampments.