Martina Forde
Athenry, Co. Galway,Ireland
Summary
Detail oriented and highly organised individual with over 20 years experience in both the political and community development sectors. Proven ability to navigate the political landscape, conduct research, manage stakeholder relationships and effectively engage with diverse communities to identify needs and implement impactful initiatives. Possessing strong communication, organisational, and problem-solving skills, seeking to leverage expertise in policy, community empowerment, and public service in a challenging and rewarding role.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
4
4
years of post-secondary education
Work history
Parliamentary Assistant
Houses of the Oireachatas
03.2011 - 01.2025
- Management and resolution of constituent casework, liaising with relevant government departments and ensuring timely responses.
- Drafting parliamentary questions contributing to the TD's active participation in Dáil debates.
- Liaising with parliamentary staff, government officials, and external stakeholders on behalf of the TD.
- Researching proposed legislation and producing detailed briefing.
- Management of the TD's Dáil schedule, effectively coordinating meetings, parliamentary questions, and committee appearances.
- Preparation of clear and concise speaking notes for the TD on various topics, drawing upon in-depth policy analysis.
- Drafting press releases and monitoring media coverage.
Project Coordinator
Na Calaí Community Development Project
10.2004 - 03.2011
- Management and coordination of the Project work and staff.
- Development, implementation and evaluation of the strategic plans of the Project.
- Financial management and reporting to a range of different statutory, charitable and private funders.
- Supervising and supporting staff and volunteers of the Project.
- Facilitation of inter agency cooperation in addressing the needs of the Project Area.
Community Development Coordinator
National University of Ireland, Galway.
10.2003 - 10.2004
- Management, coordination and delivery of the University's Diploma in Community Development on an outreach basis
- Provision of mentoring support for students of the above programme
- Consultation and liaison with relevant state and local agencies.
Community Development Officer
Borrisokane Area Network Development
05.2001 - 10.2003
- Coordination and implementation of the Unemployment, Community and Youth measures of the Local Development Social Inclusion Programme.
- Developmental work with established and newly formed community groups in the region (e.g. Youth Cafe, After-school Project, Mental Health Awareness Group etc.)
Education
Master of Arts - Community Development
National University of Ireland
Galway 09.1998 - 05.2000
Bachelor of Arts - Geography
National University of Ireland
Galway 09.1995 - 05.1998
Skills
- Excellent communication, research, and administrative skills
- Experienced in planning, stakeholder management, and delivering successful community-focused initiatives
- Experienced in policy and legislative research and analysis
Affiliations
- Coach with Kilconieron Camoige Club
- Committee Member of Bluefin Swim Club
- Previous Committee Member of Carrabane Parents Association, Carrabane Development Committee and Carrabane Arts Festival Group
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Parliamentary Assistant
Houses of the Oireachatas
03.2011 - 01.2025
Project Coordinator
Na Calaí Community Development Project
10.2004 - 03.2011
Community Development Coordinator
National University of Ireland, Galway.
10.2003 - 10.2004
Community Development Officer
Borrisokane Area Network Development
05.2001 - 10.2003
Master of Arts - Community Development
National University of Ireland
09.1998 - 05.2000
Bachelor of Arts - Geography
National University of Ireland
09.1995 - 05.1998
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