Holly Cairns Opens Up About the Challenges of Dáil Commute and Childcare: No Sugar-Coating the Difficulties
Holly Cairns, a prominent figure in the Irish political landscape, has openly discussed the difficulties associated with her dual roles as a mother and a politician. The Cork Southwest TD recently returned to work following her maternity leave, which coincided with the birth of her first child on the day of the 2024 general election.
Challenges of Dáil Commute and Childcare
The journey from her home in Cork to Leinster House is demanding. Cairns notes that the commute can exceed four hours and is often extended to five, especially with an infant in tow. “It’s logistically difficult,” she acknowledges. Balancing work and childcare has become increasingly challenging.
Cairns has expressed frustration with the lack of available childcare options, stating that she has not found a creche place. This complicates her ability to manage official duties alongside her responsibilities as a new mother. For now, her partner, Barry Looney, accompanies her to work to help facilitate this arrangement.
A Candid Reflection on Motherhood and Politics
The experience of returning to work has made Cairns increasingly impatient with political inefficiencies. “I feel like my focus is more laser,” she said, emphasizing her desire for more straightforward communication and action within the political sphere. She reflects on the difficulty of balancing personal and professional commitments, often feeling overwhelmed by the logistics of her situation.
Cairns made her debut in the Dáil in 2020 and has continually advocated for women in political roles, including proposing a bill for full maternity entitlements for councillors. Yet, she acknowledges the stigma attached to maternity leave within the political realm. Commenting on the public perception of her maternity leave, she remarked, “It has been hard, and we’re always figuring it out as we go.”
Political Landscape and Alliances
Recently involved in policy discussions, Cairns has been vocal about the Social Democrats’ stance on various issues, including environmental policies and taxation. She believes that her party is positioned further left than Sinn Féin on crucial matters such as climate change and immigration policy.
In the context of recent controversies, she voiced her concerns over how Sinn Féin has historically addressed sensitive issues, particularly regarding allegations of abuse within the party. Cairns contends that a clear dialogue on such matters is necessary to advance public understanding and foster accountability.
Addressing Government Policies
Cairns has been critical of government policies related to immigration and environmental regulations. Recently, she challenged the government’s reliance on nitrates derogations that permit farmers to exceed EU environmental limits, remarking on their socio-economic implications for local farmers in her constituency.
She emphasizes being honest with her constituents, asserting, “I didn’t get into politics to plamás anybody.” Cairns is known for her willingness to voice uncomfortable truths, even at the potential cost of political backlash.
The Path Ahead
As she navigates her role as a mother and a political leader, Cairns remains committed to advocating for pressing issues such as disability rights. She demands that the next government demonstrate a commitment to this area, indicating she would consider a senior minister for disability to be a deal-breaker in any coalition agreement.
In light of her challenging circumstances, Cairns maintains her dedication to her constituents, aiming to balance her personal ambitions with political responsibilities. She continues to articulate the importance of discussing the realities women face in politics, particularly surrounding maternity and parenthood.
As the political landscape evolves, Holly Cairns remains a pivotal voice, highlighting the necessity of understanding and addressing the challenges inherent in balancing public service with personal obligations.
