Definition
Michael Finneran is an Irish former politician who served as a Teachta Dála (TD) and Minister of State representing the Fianna Fáil party.
Overview
Born on 28 February 1955, Finneran was elected to Dáil Éireann for the Sligo–Leitrim constituency in the 2002 general election and retained his seat in the 2007 election. During his tenure, he held the position of Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine from 2007 to 2010, with responsibility for rural development and forestry. He lost his Dáil seat in the 2011 general election and subsequently retired from active politics. Prior to his national career, Finneran was involved in local government, serving on Sligo County Council.
Etymology/Origin
The given name “Michael” is of Hebrew origin, meaning “Who is like God?” The surname “Finneran” is an Anglicised form of the Irish Ó Fionnáir, meaning “descendant of Fionnáir,” where “Fionnáir” is a personal name derived from “fionn,” meaning “fair” or “white.”
Characteristics
- Political affiliation: Fianna Fáil, a centrist to centre‑right Irish political party.
- Legislative focus: Rural development, agricultural policy, and forestry management.
- Public service: Apart from his role as Minister of State, Finneran contributed to various parliamentary committees, including those dealing with agriculture and rural affairs.
- Post‑political activity: Following his departure from the Dáil, Finneran has been involved in community initiatives in County Sligo, though he has not held elected office since 2011.
Related Topics
- Fianna Fáil
- Dáil Éireann
- Irish political system
- Rural development policy in Ireland
- Sligo–Leitrim constituency
- Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Ireland)