The richest TD in Ireland and a landlord of 30 properties

Countries & Cities · Published 15 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Michael Healy-Rae is a political powerhouse whose career spans local council, reality TV stardom, and national ministry. While he navigates complex issues like Irish pub culture and social welfare, his personal portfolio as one of the country's wealthiest politicians remains a subject of intense public scrutiny.

Michael Healy-Rae first entered the political arena in 1999, winning a seat on the Kerry County Council for Killorglin. His rise to national prominence was marked by both traditional politics and unconventional media appearances, including a win on the reality show Celebrities Go Wild in 2007. However, his early career faced scrutiny following a 2011 voting scandal where he received over 3,600 premium-rate phone votes from Leinster House, costing taxpayers €2,600.

Healy-Rae's political identity is defined by independent advocacy and traditionalist views. He has consistently opposed abortion, euthanasia, and same-sex marriage, while championing Irish pub culture as a vital social space. His legislative record includes unique proposals, such as suggesting the removal of 'unlucky' number 13 from license plates in 2013 to support the car industry, and raising concerns about 'The Hum'—a mysterious low-frequency sound reported by some constituents.

A significant portion of Healy-Rae's profile involves his extensive property portfolio. By March 2025, he declared ownership of almost 30 properties of land, including rental houses and contracts for accommodating refugees. In March 2026, reports identified him as Ireland's richest TD. His interests are diverse, spanning roles as a postmaster, farmer, shop owner, and plant-hire operator with contracts involving the Health Service Executive and Kerry County Council.

His tenure in government has been marked by both appointments and resignations. He served as Minister of State for forestry from January 2025 until April 2026, when he resigned citing a government out of touch with the people. Despite various controversies—including a conflict of interest regarding the Citizens' Information Board and a failure to initially declare shares in a hotel company—he has remained a dominant figure in Kerry politics.

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