Patrick was elected to the Dail in February 2011 Patrick was first elected to Limerick County Council in June 2004, topping the poll at the age of 27 with 1,485 first preference votes while also working as an industrial chemist. In a short time on the council, Patrick's reputation as a fighter for issues earned him the honour of being elected the youngest Fine Gael Group Leader in Ireland by his fellow party members. His work was also recognised by his constituents who re-elected him with 2,254 votes in 2009. During this time he had also taken on the task of going back to college and becoming a primary school teacher. Patrick has held a number of positions during his time on the council as well as maintaining an active involvement with a number of charitable, cultural and sporting organisations also. Below is a list of the committees and boards on which he has served. Chairperson of the Environment Committee Represent Limerick County Council on West Limerick Resources Board County Limerick Joint Policing Committee Planning and Infrastructure Committee Chairperson of the Environment and Emergency Services SPC Former President of Young Fine Gael

"I believe that politics should be about service, honesty and ability, the qualities that I will bring to Dáil Eireann as a Fine Gael TD. I am in politics, not for power or prestige, but to serve my community. For the last seven years I have worked tirelessly to represent the public's interests on Limerick County Council. With your help, I hope to continue that work as a TD for County Limerick."