First-time TDs ‘frustrated’ by the workload

A study of first-time TDs has found that despite huge initial enthusiasm for their role, the 84 new deputies that entered the Dáil in 2011 believe their talents aren’t being used and are frustrated by their inability to exercise influence on policy.

During their first year in the job, new TDs admitted to feeling overwhelmed by the breadth of their role, yet were often unsure of what exactly this role was.

And even though many had experience of local politics and the Seanad, many TDs were taken aback by the high demands of the job, especially the difficulties in managing their time.