A NORTHSIDE TD has told how he sometimes wonders what he’s doing in politics and longs to be back in his former day job.
In a candid interview with Northside People, Dublin North Central TD Aodhán � Riordáin (Lab) revealed how on
“dark days
? he
“despairs
? and wonders whether he can make a difference in politics.
Deputy Ã? Riordáin also explained how he has found a new appreciation for his former day job of being principal of St Laurence O’Toole’s Girls’ National School in Sheriff Street.
“I didn’t realise how much I liked it until I became a TD,
? he stated.
“Don’t get me wrong: I’m really honoured to have this position and there are some days that I can’t believe I’m here [in the Dail] but there are also days when you can get disheartened.
“In politics there is a lot of paperwork and you have no idea how you are perceived.
“It can be quite isolating whereas working in a school you are surrounded by positivity from children who are inherently positive and full of excitement.
“They are always so anxious to tell you their good news and the dynamic of having your own class is really nice.
“No one ever second guesses your motives when you are in teaching, which is the total opposite in politics, and you have a good idea of whether you’re doing your job well from the pupils and their parents.
?
The modest TD says that despite his increased appreciation for teaching, he is realistic about how his departure as school principal was viewed by his pupils.
“I’m sure if I got run over by a bus in the morning the kids might sing a song or plant a tree or something,
? he joked.
“They don’t hang about with their emotions so I’m under no illusion that they might miss me but I do miss them and school life.
?
Deputy Ã?’Riordáin, who was elected to the Dail 18 months ago, described how he is still adjusting to life as a politician and being in the public eye.
“Whenever you say anything it can be dissected so you have to be very careful about what you say and how you say it,
? he explained.
“I guess in every profession you have a
‘shop face’ and you have to be mindful that what you say can frighten people so I do my absolute best to deliver a message as honestly as possibly.
?
The TD, who hails from Malahide, is passionate in his belief and drive to ensure that children from all backgrounds are afforded the same chances and choices in education.
He readily accepts that it’s a long road and he accepts that politicians bear the brunt of unpopular but
“necessary
? cuts.
“I know people are impatient and unhappy, believe me,
? he said.
“I get texts, tweets, emails and people have even called my mother to tell her how much they disagree with me and our policies.
“I have to believe that we are making a difference and that we can reform the country, both politically and economically, and make it a better place to live, otherwise there wouldn’t be any point getting out of bed in the morning.
?
Deputy � Riordáin added:
“At the end of the day, if I don’t think I have done my job well as a TD or if I haven’t achieved anything by the time of the next election, I will readily go back to my former job.
“Making a real and positive difference is something that is very important and personal to me.
?