Political Platform: Sorca Clarke TD
Sorca Clarke is a Sinn Féin TD for Longford-Westmeath having been first elected to the Dáil in 2020. She discusses her priorities for Longford-Westmeath, her path from single teenage parent to Leinster House, and her interests in reading, crocheting, and whittling.
What inspired you to get involved in politics?
Like many people, I did not grow up thinking I would become a politician. I certainly do not have the background of someone who would become a TD; I have been a single teenage parent from a socially deprived area, who finally got around to sitting the leaving cert when I was 21. I then went on to work in an ‘earn and learn’ model which meant I was working full time and studying at night to qualify as an accountant.
For me, seeing too many people struggling to access services they were entitled to and who too often felt they had nobody willing to fight their corner is what drew me into activism and from there into politics. Politics, at its best, is about improving people’s everyday lives. That is still what motivates me.
What has been your proudest achievement in politics?
I believe every speech, parliamentary question, and committee contribution should ultimately serve the people who elected me and it is difficult to single out one achievement because many of the most impactful achievements never make the headlines. Helping a family secure the supports their child desperately needs or even ensuring a lost passport is replaced for that long saved for holiday may seem like little things in the grander scheme, but they make a huge difference to the person.
Nationally, I have also been proud to contribute to debates on major issues over the last six years. Those that stay with me are the ones where I got to ensure the concerns of people from Longford-Westmeath were heard in the Dáil or took the lead on Sinn Féin motions such as the recent motion to improve services in A&Es for those experiencing a mental health crisis.
“All politics is local and some of the best political debates I have had have been around kitchen tables.” Sorca Clarke TD
Who do you admire in politics or public life?
I admire people who combine conviction with humility and who never lose sight of why they entered public service. Politics should always be about service rather than profile.
I have been very fortunate to work alongside many dedicated elected representatives and community activists whose commitment often goes unnoticed. Those who quietly get on with solving problems, listening to people, and standing up for their communities deserve enormous respect and admiration.
What drew you to Sinn Féin?
I often describe choosing a political party to join is like picking a pair of shoes – you just know they are the right fit. I was drawn to Sinn Féin because of its commitment to Irish unity, equality, social justice, and the belief that everyone deserves access to quality public services regardless of their income or background.
Sinn Féin’s strong connection with local communities resonates with me also.
Politics cannot simply happen in Leinster House; it must begin by listening to people where they live, understanding the challenges they face, and working with them to deliver change they want to see. All politics is local and some of the best political debates I have had have been around kitchen tables.
What are your key priorities for Longford-Westmeath?
My priority is ensuring that Longford-Westmeath receives the investment and services it deserves. That means improving access to transport, healthcare, expanding housing supply, strengthening local infrastructure, and creating opportunities so that young people can build their futures here rather than feeling they have to leave.
I am particularly passionate about improving mental health services and ensuring rural communities are not left behind when decisions are made nationally. I want people across Longford-Westmeath to know they have a strong voice in the Dáil and someone who will continue to fight for them every day.
What are your interests outside of work?
Politics is demanding, and it is not always easy to take time out to recharge, but it is important to try, even a 20-minute walk can do the world of good. I have four children aged from 12 to 28, two of whom have autism, and I am also nanny to an amazing little boy who lights up our world. I love spending time with them.
I am an avid reader, and when I have the time, I also crochet. I am also naturally curious, so I enjoy learning new skills. I am quite good at whittling, but I am still apologising to the family from when I tried learning guitar!
