About Leonora
Education
A native of Clarecastle, Leonora attended the local primary school and completed her secondary level education at Coláiste Muire and St Flannan’s College in Ennis. She went on to study at Trinity College in Dublin where she graduated with a degree in Occupational Therapy in 1998. She subsequently obtained a Masters Degree in Healthcare Management with the Institute of Public Administration.
Career
Her initial posting as an Occupational Therapist was at the Mater Hospital in Dublin. She transferred to Our Lady’s Hospice in Harold’s Cross where she cared for dying and terminally ill patients, an experience she describes as “a rare and wonderful privilege”. She moved to the Milford Care Centre in Limerick as OT Manager where she could combine her career with the responsibility of caring for her father at their home in Clarecastle. Four years ago, she became the first Occupational Therapist Manager for the University of Limerick Hospitals Group which has grown from a team of 16 to 36, covering all the hospitals in the Mid-West. One of her most recent achievements was the introduction of an occupational therapy service in Ennis Hospital.
Political Background
An experienced political strategist at regional and national level, Leonora has served as Chair of the Fine Gael National Executive. Her father, Donal, served as Fine Gael TD for Clare from 1982 to 2002 and Minister of State from 1995 to 1997. She is now campaigning to retain the seat held by her brother, Joe, since 2007.
