"My wife and daughter are graduates" - New Kildare minister welcomed to Maynooth University

The new Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless TD, was welcomed this week to the Maynooth campus in Kildare by the University President, Eeva Leinonen.

Minister Lawless said: "Over 200 staff of the department staff from our three offices in Offaly and Dublin came together for a day of networking and seminars. I was especially proud to attend one of my first official events in my home constituency, close to my home near Sallins.

"I was pleased to return to the campus I know so well as both my wife and my daughter are graduates of the university."

The Minister added: "As a TD for this constituency, I am delighted to be here at Maynooth University, a place that holds great significance not just for its academic excellence, but for its role in the community.

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"I want to extend my thanks to the President of Maynooth University Eeva Leinonen, all the staff involved in organising this meeting, and for making me feel so welcome."

He said: "Our mission, as a Department, is to empower people and create opportunities for everyone— regardless of their background, challenges, or circumstances. We are making education more accessible and ensuring lifelong learning is an option for all.

"We are making education more accessible and ensuring lifelong learning is an option for all. Today, we are here not just to reflect on what has been achieved, but to focus on the future and the important work we still have ahead of us."