Joe was elected to Seanad Éireann (Industrial and Commercial Panel) in July 2007.  Polled almost 10,000 first-preference votes in General Election, '07. He was appointed Fine Gael Spokesperson on Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, October, 2007. Polled almost 40,000 votes in Euro Election, 09.

Married to Mary Tully, they have three sons. Joe, a national school teacher by profession, and Mary, a public health nurse, have a long-time commitment to voluntary work, particularly in the disability sector. Reared on a family farm, having run a business, and with professional experience of young people, Joe has insight into a great range of issues.

Planning for growth and development in Cavan-Monaghan is essential.
Investment in schools and training centres, hospitals and health facilities, industry and agriculture, modern transport and communications, are all crucial. We also need a well-funded programme to cater for recreational, cultural and leisure needs of young and old.

Joe's former experience as a Senator, where he was Front Bench spokesperson on Health, as Chairperson of Cavan County Council, and as a member of Cavan VEC, all qualify him for Oireachtas Éireann. His unique communication skills and huge commitment to helping others is already very well known.