About Me

John Paul was elected to Dáil Éireann in November 2024 and is proud to represent the people of Cork North West.

 

A native of the area, John Paul was born and raised in the rural townland of Laharn, Lombardstown, just east of Kanturk. The youngest of seven in his family, he grew up with a strong sense of community, hard work, and looking out for others—values that continue to guide him in public life.

 

He has been involved in his local community all his life, and that grounding has shaped his practical, hands-on approach to politics. Before entering national politics, John Paul worked with the HSE and, in his earlier years, with agricultural contractors. He continues to have a keen interest in horticulture and rural life.

 

John Paul served as Mayor of the County of Cork in 2015/2016 and has been a proud public representative for almost two decades. Before his election to Dáil Éireann in 2024, John Paul served his community for 16 years on Cork County Council, having first been elected in 2009 and re-elected on four occasions.

 

John Paul is known locally for his honesty, integrity, and ability to work through issues and get things done. He is a strong advocate for better local services, more balanced regional development, and increasing the supply of affordable housing. In particular, he supports the expansion of cost rental housing as a way to provide security and long-term certainty for renters.

 

He is also committed to improving disability services in Cork North West and continuing his work to enhance supports and services for older people.

 

Following his election to Dáil Éireann, he played a role in the Programme for Government negotiations on behalf of Fine Gael, helping to shape national priorities.

 

John Paul currently serves as Chair of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Social Protection and Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht. He is also a member of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Budgetary Oversight and the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Drug Use. Within Fine Gael, he contributes to policy development through committees on Agriculture, Climate and Energy, and Childcare.

 

 

John Paul is determined to be a strong voice for the people of Cork North West. He places a strong emphasis on being present in the constituency, working on the ground and staying closely connected to the issues that matter most to local communities. His constituency office in Kanturk, supported by a dedicated team, plays a vital role in assisting people and working hard every day to deliver for the people of the area.

 

John Paul takes great pride in representing Cork North West and works tirelessly to support local communities, respond to people’s concerns, and deliver real, practical improvements for the region.