Hugh Byrne (Fianna Fáil politician) facts for kids

Hugh Byrne (born 3 September 1943) is an Irish politician who used to work for the Fianna Fáil political party. He was a Teachta Dála (TD) for the Wexford area for 18 years. A TD is like a member of parliament in Ireland. He also served as a senator for three years. Senators are part of the second house of the Irish parliament.

Early Life and Sports Achievements

Hugh Byrne was born in Gusserane, a place in County Wexford, Ireland. Before he became a politician, he worked as a teacher. He taught at Patrician Secondary School in Newbridge for three years. After that, he moved back to Wexford.

Sporting Talents in Gaelic Games

Hugh Byrne was also a talented athlete. He played Gaelic football for the Wexford county team. Gaelic football is a popular Irish sport that mixes elements of soccer and rugby. He also played hurling for the Kildare county team. Hurling is another ancient Irish sport, known for its fast pace and use of a stick called a hurley. He even won a special medal in Kildare for senior football with his club, Moorefield GAA.

Hugh Byrne's Political Journey

Hugh Byrne started his political career in local government. He became a member of Wexford County Council in 1974. This council helps manage local services and decisions in County Wexford.

First Time in Dáil Éireann

In 1981, Hugh Byrne was elected to Dáil Éireann. This is the main part of the Irish parliament. He represented the Wexford area. During this time, he was part of a group of 22 politicians from his party, Fianna Fáil. This group disagreed with the leader of their party, Charles Haughey, on some important issues.

Losing and Regaining His Seat

Hugh Byrne lost his seat in the Dáil in the 1989 election. However, he was then chosen by the Taoiseach (the Irish Prime Minister) to become a senator in the 19th Seanad. This allowed him to continue serving in parliament. He successfully won back his Dáil seat in the 1992 election. He kept this seat until the 2002 election, when he lost it to another politician from his own party, Tony Dempsey.

Serving as a Minister of State

From 1997 to 2002, Hugh Byrne had an important role as a Minister of State for Marine and Natural Resources. A Minister of State helps a main government minister with specific areas of responsibility. In this role, he would have helped manage things related to Ireland's seas and natural resources.

Life After Dáil Éireann

Even after leaving the Dáil, Hugh Byrne has remained involved in politics. His daughter, Aoife, also tried to get elected in Wexford in the 2016 general election, but she was not successful. Hugh Byrne continues to help with Fianna Fáil's local election campaigns in Wexford, showing his ongoing dedication to his community and party.

Health Update

In 2023, Hugh Byrne faced a health challenge when he survived a stroke. He has since recovered.