Broadcaster among Taoiseach’s 11 nominees to Seanad

A prominent broadcaster is among the Taoiseach’s 11 nominees to the Seanad.

Evanne Ni Chuilinn said she will miss her career of two decades in sports broadcasting, but is looking forward to the opportunity to speak up on issues she is excited about.

Micheal Martin announced his 11 nominees to Seanad Eireann following the election of 49 seats to the Irish Parliament’s upper house last week.

Mr Martin also said he intends to advise President Michael D Higgins to convene the first meeting of the new Seanad on Wednesday February 12.

His 11 nominees also include Dee Ryan, Alison Comyn, Anne Rabbitte, Lorraine Clifford Lee, Imelda Goldsboro, Joe Flaherty, Nikki Bradley, Manus Boyle, Noel O’Donovan and Gareth Scahill.

Under the terms of the coalition deal for the recently elected Irish government, six of the nominees went to Fianna Fail and five to Fine Gael.

Tanaiste and Fine Gael leader Simon Harris confirmed Ms Ni Chuilinn will serve as a Fine Gael senator.

“She is an accomplished broadcaster, journalist and author, but also a passionate advocate for women in sport, mental health and women’s healthcare,” he said.

“She is a fantastic addition to the Fine Gael team and this is a very exciting day for Evanne, her family, but also for the Fine Gael party.

“Evanne embodies the core Fine Gael value of equality of opportunity. I know she will work hard to bring her experience and energy to her work in the Seanad and to the communities she serves.”

Ms Ni Chuilinn said becoming a senator is an honour and an “opportunity to advance change on a wide range of issues affecting Irish life”.

“I have enjoyed a varied and exciting career in sports broadcasting for more than two decades – one which I will miss and I am grateful to have had,” she said.

“I have never taken for granted the platform my career has afforded me and have been conscious to use my voice in advocating for issues that I’ve had lived experience of.

“I am passionate about women and girls in sport, minority sports and an Ghaeilge, and as I enter public life, I will continue to live by those passions. I have spoken publicly on private matters such as suicide, mental health, women’s health and infertility.”