James Lawless delight at 'best election' in Kildare North

An election could be likened to a gladiatorial battle and so it was fitting that Minister James Lawless took in Gladiator II on election day.

“The dream of Rome ... the dream of North Kildare,” he joked as he savoured a poll topping result in Kildare North.

Minister James Lawless earned 8734 first preference votes compared to just over 7000 votes in 2020.

The Sallins based TD had confined his canvassing to the south of the constituency and had shared the middle with his running mate, cllr Naoise O Cearúil.

"I am delighted, it's the best election I have ever had. I have topped the poll in a local election but never in a general and in a constituency where I am not campaigning in a third. It's particularly gratifying."

It’s a far cry to when he entered politics.

"I remember being in the count hall in 2011 when some of us were being run out of count centres and it was really difficult times.

"To back as a minister, topping the poll and hopefully going back into government. 10 years ago I would have grabbed it with both hands.” Speaking of why the people of Kildare North voted for him in such numbers, he said: "Ever since I have started out, I have worked with people, engaged with people. I like to think I have been honest with people. I don't go promising the sun, moon and stars."

He added: "It's blood, sweat and tears and a lot of hard work.” 

It was a busy election campaign for the trained barrister, carrying out his duties as minister of state in the department of transport up until the 11th hour.

Minster Lawless had a pool of over 100 volunteers out canvassing including party faithful, friends and family including wife Ailish, children Caoimhe and Niamh and mother Mary.

Minister James Lawless said it had been full on the last few weeks.

He started out in politics campaigning on transport investment and it will be one of his main priorities in the next government. He hopes to retain a minister of state in the department of transport and possibly be appointed to the full cabinet.

"I only had four months in it, I'd love four years in it. I think there is an awful lot I can do. Maybe go one better into the senior positions."

On election day, he took himself off to the cinema with his Ailish.

"I had to turn my phone off. I went with my wife and after a hectic few weeks it was nice to catch up. I did Naas Parkrun on Saturday morning. It meant I had my phone off. I could take my mind off!”