Kilkenny senator takes on exciting new role

"Patricia will be a strong voice when it comes to articulating our views on foreign affairs and trade," says party leader

Carlow-Kilkenny senator Patricia Stephenson has been announced as the Social Democrats' new spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Trade.

"Senator Stephenson, who sits on the Foreign Affairs and Trade committee, will now take on the role of spokesperson on Foreign Affairs and Trade," announced Cian O'Callaghan, acting leader for the Social Democrats.

Deputy O'Callaghan expressed his confidence in Senator Stephenson taking on her new role. “Patricia has a huge level of experience in this area. Before being elected to the Seanad, she spent almost a decade working in international development, including six years living in East Africa.

“Patricia is a former EU diplomat, having worked for the EU delegation to Uganda in the governance and human rights department. Patricia is also one of the Irish delegates to the Council of Europe.

“Given the geopolitical upheaval of recent times and escalating conflicts around the world, Patricia will be a strong voice when it comes to articulating the Social Democrats’ views on foreign affairs and trade. I wish her every success in the new role,” concluded Deputy O'Callaghan.