Joe Walsh (Irish politician)

Joe Walsh, (b.1943), Fianna Fáil politician & Minister for Agriculture (1997-present)

Joe Walsh was born in May 1943 in Cork. He was educated at University College Cork and began working in the dairy industry. He became involved with Fianna Fáil at University and was elected to Dáil Éireann in 1977. He was defeated in the 1981 general election but was elected to Seanad Éireann. He was re-elected in the 1982 general election. He became a member of the Gang of 22 that challenged Charles Haughey's leadership during the early 1980's. Despite this Walsh was appointed Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture & Food when Fianna Fáil returned to power in 1987 with Mr. Haughey as Taoiseach. In 1989 he assisted in the negotiations which lead to the formation of the first coalition between Fianna Fáil and the Progressive Democrats. He was re-appointed as Minister for State. When Albert Reynolds came to power in 1992 Walsh joined the Cabinet and became Minister for Agriculture. When Fianna Fáil returned to power in 1997 he was again appointed Minister for Agriculture, a position he has held ever since. He has been credited with his handling of the Foot & Mouth Crisis in 2000. It is expected that Walsh will retire from politics at the next general election which is expected in 2007.

Preceded by: Michael Woods	Minister for Agriculture & Food (1992-1994)	Followed by: Ivan Yates
Preceded by: Ivan Yates	Minister for Agriculture & Food (1997-present)	Followed by: -----