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Heather was first elected to Dáil Éireann in February 2011 and is the first woman ever elected for Fine Gael in the Cavan-Monaghan Constituency. She was re-elected in the 2016 General Election when she topped the poll with12,391 first preference votes.
Heather first became involved in politics when she was co-opted on to Monaghan County Council in 2003 and was twice re-elected in 2004 and 2009. In 2009, Heather was elected as Mayor of Monaghan County Council. She was previously Chair of the Council’s Strategic Policy Committee on Planning and Economic Development and also served on the Council’s An Coiste Gaeilge.
Heather has been a member of Cabinet since 2014 and has served in a number of portfolios. As Minister for Culture, Heather led the successful 2016 Centenary Commemorations. As Minister for Rural Affairs, she launched the Action Plan for Rural Development and introduced the highly successful Town and Village Renewal Scheme. As Minister for Business, Heather has prioritised investment and job creation in the regions and recently launched 9 new Regional Enterprise Plans to drive this ambition.
Heather currently serves as Minister for Rural and Community Development and Minister for Social Protection.
Heather is married with two daughters and lives on a farm in Aghabog, Co Monaghan. Prior to entering politics, she worked as Manager of Cootehill Credit Union. Heather’s rural background coupled with her strong work ethic and no-nonsense approach makes her a strong voice for the people of Cavan-Monaghan.
Heather’s constituency offices are open Monday-Friday and her local team provide a strong and dependable service to the people of Cavan-Monaghan.
Heather’s financial experience in both personal and business matters combined with a farming background makes her a strong voice for the people of Cavan and Monaghan. She is acutely aware of the challenges facing indigenous industries and small business and understands the importance of cash flow to businesses and has made this issue one of her main priorities as a new TD.
Heathers approach to politics focuses on common sense, honesty and practicality. This goes hand in hand with her businesslike attitude and a willingness to roll up the sleeves and get the job done. Prior to being appointed to Cabinet, Heather served as a member of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Finance, Public Expenditure & Reform, the Joint Administration Committee and as a member of the Organisation for Security and Co-Operation in Europe (OSCE). Heather also served on the All Party Consultation Group on Commemorations and as Chairperson of the Internal Fine Gael Finance Committee.