​Martin Daly, our newest Fianna Fáil TD Settles In

Martin Daly, TD

​Martin Daly, our newest Fianna Fáil TD, is the eldest of seven children. His mother was from India, and his father from County Galway. His mother came to Ireland to study medicine at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI), where she met her future husband.

Both were dedicated doctors who set up a medical practice in Ballygar, which continues to serve the community to this day. His wife, Dr Myriam Mangan, and Dr Clodagh Murray are partners in the practice.

Sports of all kinds have been a big part of his life, growing up in a community where it plays a central role, leading to a keen interest in sports medicine.

He was fortunate to work with the Roscommon GAA senior inter-county panel, practising at an elite level. “Working with these athletes has been a rewarding experience, allowing me to combine my professional expertise with my passion for the sport,” states Martin.

Dr Martin took on a national high-profile role, serving as the President of the Irish Medical Organisation in 2008/2009. It allowed him to advocate for the medical profession, engaging with key healthcare issues and policy development that continue to shape our healthcare system today.

He is clear on his motivation: “I was increasingly frustrated by the lack of government representation for our constituency and the feeling that our region was being left behind. Sitting on the sidelines was no longer an option for me; I felt a strong sense of duty to stand up and advocate for the people of Roscommon-Galway. My motivation comes from a desire to be a strong, effective voice at the national level, ensuring that our communities receive the attention and resources they deserve to thrive,” he explains.

While canvassing, it became abundantly clear to him that Ballinasloe is in urgent need of investment and job creation. Many residents expressed a strong desire to see industries such as life sciences set up, bringing sustainable employment opportunities.

There is a clear appetite for initiatives that will attract businesses and provide secure, high-quality jobs for the local population.

“A significant concern raised was the future of St Brigid’s Psychiatric Hospital, with many questioning what will become of the facility and calling for it to be repurposed in a way that benefits the community. Residents are keen to see a practical and meaningful use for this historic site that aligns with the town’s evolving needs,” states Dr Martin.

Traffic safety was another key issue, particularly at Creagh Junction, where improvements are urgently needed to protect both pedestrians and motorists. Additionally, concerns were voiced regarding the general speed of traffic through the town and surrounding estates, with calls for enhanced traffic-calming measures and infrastructure upgrades to improve road safety.

He believes local people are also focused on the successful amalgamation of Garbally College and Ard Scoil Mhuire into Clonfert College, with a strong emphasis on ensuring that the new school maintains its DEIS (Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools) status, which provides essential supports and resources for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Another critical issue raised on Martin’s canvass is the delivery of the promised new school building for Scoil an Chroí Naofa. The community has been eagerly awaiting progress on this project, and ensuring its timely completion will provide much-needed modern facilities for students and staff. It is essential to accommodate the town’s growing population and provide a high-quality learning environment, he believes.

Residents highlighted the need for further investment and the approved development of projects within Portiuncula Hospital. Ensuring that the hospital receives adequate funding and resources to enhance its capacity and services is a top priority for the community. The hospital is a vital healthcare facility for the region, and improvements will play a significant role in meeting the growing healthcare demands of the local population.

In terms of priorities for the early part of his term, he is fully committed to working hard on constituency matters. To ensure accessibility and direct engagement with the community, he is establishing constituency offices in both Ballinasloe and Roscommon to provide a dedicated resource for people to voice their concerns and seek assistance.

In summary, Martin’s immediate priorities for Ballinasloe will focus on: healthcare improvements, job creation, infrastructure upgrades, and support for agriculture.

He is also strongly of the view that the town itself continues to advocate for its needs and actively pursue available funding opportunities. “I will work with community groups, local organisations, and public bodies where necessary to help access funding, secure investment, and drive initiatives forward. Ballinasloe has great potential, and by working together, combining local efforts with national representation, we can ensure the town thrives and secures the resources it needs for long-term success,” states Martin.

Ballinasloe, Martin believes, has tremendous potential for growth, particularly in sectors such as life sciences, technology, and local enterprise. With the right investment, the town can position itself as a hub for innovation and economic development.

“With strong collaboration between local authorities, businesses, and community groups, Ballinasloe can become a thriving town that offers opportunities for all,” he encourages.

Housing challenges, with demand outpacing supply, are making it difficult for families and individuals to secure affordable accommodation. Along with the other priorities mentioned, this highlights the need for immediate action and long-term strategic planning to ensure the town’s future prosperity.

Success for Ballinasloe in five years will mean a town that has seen significant progress in key areas such as economic growth, healthcare, infrastructure, and community development.

“My focus will be on ensuring that Ballinasloe becomes a place where people can live, work, and thrive – including:
➤ A strong local economy with increased job opportunities
➤ Improved healthcare services
➤ Enhanced infrastructure and road safety measures
➤ Expanded housing options to meet demand
➤ Strengthened community facilities and public amenities,” he pledges.

Throughout the campaign, he enjoyed many cups of tea and some wonderful meals in the fantastic cafés and restaurants across the constituency. But it’s difficult to pick just one favourite.

He has a diverse taste in music, spanning from the classics of the 60s and 70s right through to more modern rock. Bands like Arctic Monkeys, The Strokes, and Kings of Leon are often on his playlist, which will sustain him on the trips to and from Leinster House.

He has extended his deepest gratitude to his incredible team of canvassers who worked tirelessly throughout the campaign.
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“A special thanks to my wife, my family, my brother, sisters, and extended family who provided unwavering support and encouragement every step of the way. I would also like to thank my election agent Barry Devereux, director of elections P Burke, and Media & PR manager Kayala Costello. Finally, I want to express my sincere appreciation to the people of Roscommon-Galway for their incredible support and trust. I am honoured to have this opportunity."