Charles McDonald (Irish politician) facts for kids

Charles McDonald (born 11 June 1935) is an Irish politician who is now retired. He was a member of the Fine Gael political party. He served in important roles in Irish and European politics for many years.

He was a Senator (a member of Ireland's upper house of parliament) from 1961 to 1973, and again from 1977 to 1992. He also served as a Teachta Dála (TD), which is a member of Dáil Éireann (Ireland's main parliament), from 1973 to 1977. In addition, he was one of Ireland's first Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) from 1973 to 1979.

Charles McDonald's Political Journey

Charles McDonald grew up in County Laois, Ireland. Before he became a politician, he worked as a farmer. His journey into politics began in 1961.

Becoming a Senator

In 1961, Charles McDonald was first elected to the Seanad Éireann. The Seanad is like a second chamber of parliament in Ireland. He was elected on the "Agricultural Panel," which means he represented people involved in farming. He held this position until 1973.

Serving in the Dáil

In 1973, Charles McDonald was elected as a Teachta Dála (TD). A TD is a member of Dáil Éireann, which is the main law-making body in Ireland. He represented the Laois–Offaly area. He served as a TD until the 1977 general election, when he lost his seat. Even though he tried to get back into the Dáil in later elections, he was not successful.

Returning to the Seanad

After losing his Dáil seat in 1977, Charles McDonald was elected back to the Seanad. He continued to serve as a Senator until 1993. During this time, he took on even more important roles.

Leading the Seanad

From 1981 to 1982, Charles McDonald was the Cathaoirleach of the Seanad. This means he was the chairperson, leading the discussions and work of the Seanad. He also served as Leas-Chathaoirleach, which is the deputy chairperson, in other periods.

Representing Ireland in Europe

In 1973, when Ireland joined the European Economic Community (now the European Union), Charles McDonald became one of Ireland's very first Members of the European Parliament (MEPs). At that time, MEPs were chosen by their national parliaments, not directly by voters.

He served as an MEP until 1979. In 1979, the first direct elections for the European Parliament were held. Charles McDonald ran in this election but did not win a seat. He tried again in 1989 but was not elected.

Charles McDonald's long career shows his dedication to public service in Ireland and Europe.