If ever there was a candidate who would make a good TD it is Aengus Ó Snodaigh. I have known him for nearly 15 years now and I can honesty say that he never ceases to surprise. He is truly an activist for all seasons. He has been a student agitator, a republican demonstrator, a writer, this paper's sub editor, on occasion this paper's layout artist, a committed Irish language activist, a researcher par excellence, not to mention political representative, to name just a few of the strings to his bow. Oh, yes, and he was a formidable rugby player in his day also.
So when Aengus first agreed to put on the suit and tie and contest the by-election in Dublin South Central, it was clear that here too was a task that he was more than up to.
For the last couple of years, he has assiduously thrown himself into the role of full-time political representative in his area and his efforts and those of his team in the constituency paid handsome dividends in the RDS on Saturday. His sizeable and enthusiastic team may have had to wait until 2.30am for the declaration, but it was well worth it.
As he was hoisted onto willing shoulders and cheered to the rafters on Saturday night, the last of the five republican seats to be declared, there was a real sense of optimism for the future. We have managed to get five strong, very able TDs elected. They will do us proud.
![[An Phoblacht]](http://republican-news.org/graphics/title_gifs/aprn.gif)
