About Ivana

It is a privilege to be your representative in Dáil Éireann for Dublin Bay South, an area I am deeply rooted to. I grew up in the Rathgar/Terenure area, having lived previously in Ringsend. I now live with my family in Portobello, and dog, Ginny.

Before becoming a public representative, I worked as a barrister in criminal practice and lectured in criminal law and criminology at Trinity College Dublin. After 14 years in the Seanad, I had the privilege of being elected as your TD for Dublin Bay South in the 2021 bye-election.

For over 30 years, I have been a community activist and campaigner rooted in the values of solidarity, equality, and fairness. In 1990, as President of the Student’s Union in Trinity, I was brought to court and threatened with prison for providing information on abortion. In the years following, I have been a committed activist on women’s issues, the environment, and civil liberties - playing a leading role in the landmark Repeal the 8th and Marriage Equality referendums. 

Through my legislative work, I have delivered on rights for freelance workers’, civil marriages, LGBT+ equality, and much more.  More recently, as Leader of the Labour Party, I have proposed legislation to strengthen renters’ rights, to provide support to homeless families, the give greater legal protections for children of LGBTQ parents, to protect and promote our treasured Dublin Bay, and to ensure greater workplace supports for women who experience pregnancy loss or fertility challenges.

As a keen cyclist and Dublin Bay swimmer, I continue to campaign for better cycling infrastructure and the enhancement of water quality at our cities’ many wonderful bathing spots. I work closely with our local Labour Councillors on Dublin City Council to provide for green spaces and quality amenities for our communities. As a local resident, I care deeply about vacancy and dereliction and have long campaigned for Baggot Street Hospital to be put back into public use. Public services are vital for our communities, and I am pleased to play a leading role in the campaign to save Rathmines Post Office, and to protect in-person public services, such as Citizens’ Information Centres.

Currently working with families and communities across Dublin Bay South, I want to ensure our city and suburbs are a warm and welcoming place for everyone, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, origin, or sexual orientation. I was proud to co-found the Dublin 4 and Dublin 6 for All groups to ensure this.

Mise le meas,

Ivana