Social Democrats leader Holly Cairns announces she is expecting her second child

Social Democrats deputy leader Cian O’Callaghan will assume leadership duties during Cairns’ maternity leave

Social Democrats leader Holly Cairns. Picture: Niall Carson/PA Wire

Social Democrats leader Holly Cairns has announced she is expecting her second child.

She welcomed her first child with her partner, Barry Looney, in November 2024, on the same day as the general election.

She returned from maternity leave in September for the new Dáil term.

In a statement on Thursday afternoon, she announced that she is pregnant and confirmed that she will take maternity leave from October.

“I am so happy to announce that we are expecting our second child,” she said.

“Barry and I are so excited and feel extremely lucky to be able to raise our family in West Cork.

“I have always said that having a family should not be disqualifying for a political party leader and I am very grateful to have the support of our parliamentary party and my constituents in Cork South-West.

“Our deputy leader, Cian O’Callaghan, will step into the role of acting leader in October for the duration of my maternity leave.”