Social Democrats TD Jennifer Whitmore describes her first year in the Dáil as 'a very unusual introduction to national politics' because of the effect of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The first-time TD won her seat in the 33rd Dail weeks before the first case of Covid-19 was officially confirmed in the Republic of Ireland. Like everyone else, the new Deputy had to quickly adapt to respond to the pandemic's impact on every aspect of life.
'When I was elected, my first thoughts were "what do I want to achieve? What areas do I want to focus on? How do I get out around the county to make sure I listen to and meet with as many groups as possible to hear their concerns?". But really quickly, the whole world turned upside down for everyone and the focus moved to Covid. It's been a very unusual introduction to national politics.'