Cork TD appointed Fianna Fáil spokesperson on coastal issues

FIANNA Fáil leader and Tánaiste Micheál Martin has appointed Cork South West TD Christopher O’Sullivan as the party spokesperson on Coastal Communities.

The position will see Deputy O’Sullivan covering areas such as coastal tourism, coastal infrastructure and fishing.

Speaking on the announcement, Tánaiste Micheál Martin said: “Christopher, since his election to the Dáil has been one of the most vocal promoters of all things coastal and it’s clear that he has a passion for tourism as well as the fishing sector. This will complement his role as spokesperson on Climate Action and Biodiversity.” 

In accepting the role Deputy O’Sullivan said: “This is a huge honour for me, even during my years as a councillor, coastal infrastructure was something that was always on the agenda. We have some of the most terrific harbours and inlets as well as coastal villages and towns in west Cork, and we need to protect our marine infrastructure.

"I see this role as an opportunity to highlight the fact that our coastal communities need investment. They need more investment on improving piers, slipways and pontoons which I feel would greatly benefit coastal tourism, marine tourism activities as well as facilities for both the inshore sector and larger fishing boats".

Deputy O’Sullivan concluded by saying: “Ireland has an opportunity to become a world super power in terms of renewable energy for example, and much of that will be offshore. It’s important when we have large companies investing millions in Ireland that coastal communities see the benefits.”