Mick Wallace




Mick Wallace is an Irish politician who has served as a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) for Ireland South since 2019. He is a member of the Independents 4 Change (I4C) party. Previously, he served as a Teachta Dála (TD) for Waterford from 2011 to 2016.
Wallace has been a controversial figure throughout his political career. He has been accused of making inflammatory and offensive statements, and has been criticized for his lack of experience in government. However, he has also gained a following among some voters for his willingness to speak his mind and his commitment to fighting for the underdog.
In this article, we will take a closer look at Mick Wallace, his political career, and his impact on Irish politics.
Early Life and Career
Mick Wallace was born in Waterford on 14 April 1955. He left school at the age of 15 and began working as a bricklayer. He later became a successful property developer.
Wallace first entered politics in 2008, when he was elected to Waterford City Council. He ran as an independent candidate and quickly gained a reputation for his outspoken views and his willingness to challenge the establishment.
Dáil Éireann
In 2011, Wallace was elected to the Dáil Éireann as a member of the I4C party. He quickly became one of the most high-profile TDs in the country, and was known for his controversial statements and his opposition to the government's austerity policies.
Wallace was re-elected to the Dáil in 2016, but lost his seat in the 2020 general election.
European Parliament
In 2019, Wallace was elected to the European Parliament as a member of the I4C party. He has served on the Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Subcommittee on Security and Defence.
Wallace has been a vocal critic of the European Union, and has called for Ireland to leave the bloc. He has also been a supporter of the Palestinian cause and has spoken out against Israeli human rights abuses.
Controversies
Wallace has been a controversial figure throughout his political career. He has been accused of making inflammatory and offensive statements, and has been criticized for his lack of experience in government.
In 2012, Wallace was forced to apologize after he made a number of offensive remarks about women. He also came under fire for his comments on the Irish famine, which he said was "exaggerated" and "used by the Irish government to beg for money."
In 2014, Wallace was found to have breached ethics rules by failing to declare a €15,000 donation to his election campaign. He was fined €2,000 by the Standards in Public Office Commission.
Personal Life
Wallace is married to Clare Thompson. The couple have two children.
Wallace is a keen sportsman and is a member of the Waterford GAA club. He is also a qualified pilot and enjoys flying his own plane.
Legacy
Mick Wallace is a controversial figure in Irish politics. He has been accused of making inflammatory and offensive statements, and has been criticized for his lack of experience in government. However, he has also gained a following among some voters for his willingness to speak his mind and his commitment to fighting for the underdog.
It is too early to say what Wallace's legacy will be. However, it is clear that he has made a significant impact on Irish politics. He has been a thorn in the side of the establishment and has helped to give a voice to those who feel that they have been left behind.