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Meet Patricia

I’m Patricia Stephenson, the Social Democrats Senator for the Labour Panel in Seanad Éireann.

I’m a Belfast-born, Castlecomer-based international aid worker. After six years in East Africa, my partner and I settled on the Carlow-Kilkenny border, renovating a derelict cottage near my family. Growing up, holidays with my aunt and uncle on their farm provided me with a second home, a connection to rural life that I love.

Through my work, I’ve learned that there is no development without peace—in Ireland, there is no development without dignity. I know the challenges people face daily, and I’m frustrated and angry that the state continues to fail to deliver decent services. The state has had years to address these issues, but things are getting harder for people, not better.

We need a government that supports all its citizens equally, listening to people and talking with them, not at them. Through my work as an EU diplomat, I have strong experience in advocacy and bridge-building.

I’m hard-working, responsive, efficient, and empathetic: skills I will use to represent the people of Carlow-Kilkenny. My belief in social justice, equality, and dignity for all gives me the drive to make meaningful change.

Patricia’s Priorities

  • Public Services – Prioritising investment in quality public services.
  • Housing – More affordable homes which people on average incomes can buy.
  • Health – The expansion of free GP care to all age groups.
  • Youth and Community – The Greater investment in youth work and amenities for young people.
  • Climate – Policies that leave no one behind – a fair green transition for farmers

Get in touch

patricia.stephenson@socialdemocrats.ie

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Latest News

Landmark day for the Social Democrats as party wins first ever Seanad seat

Social Democrats acting leader Cian O’Callaghan has described the election of Patricia Stephenson to Seanad Éireann as a landmark day for the party. Deputy O’Callaghan said: “Today marks another milestone for the Social Democrats following the increased mandate we received in the most recent local and general elections, where we almost doubled our number of […]

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Social Democrats propose €10 million fund to bring Palestinian children to Ireland

The Social Democrats today announced plans for a €10 million fund to bring Palestinian children to Ireland for education, cultural exchanges and medical treatment. The proposal is contained in the party’s ‘Positive Neutrality’ policy document, which was launched by foreign affairs spokesperson Gary Gannon, and Patricia Stephenson, the Soc Dems’ general election candidate in Carlow-Kilkenny. […]

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Soc Dems launch policy on ending Domestic, Sexual and Gender-Based Violence

The Social Democrats have today launched their policy aimed at tackling domestic, sexual and gender-based violence in Ireland. The policy was launched by Patricia Stephenson, the party’s candidate for Carlow-Kilkenny, and Catherine Murphy, Social Democrats justice spokesperson. The policy document outlines how, in government, the party would establish a DSGBV Commissioner, with appropriate resources and […]

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