1. Richard Roche was born on 30 March 1947 and is an Irish former Fianna Fail politician who served as Minister of State for European Affairs from 2002 to 2004 and 2007 to 2011 and Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government from 2004 to 2007.
Dick Roche served as a Teachta Dala for the Wicklow constituency from 1987 to 1992 and 1997 to 2011.
Dick Roche was a Senator for the Administrative Panel from 1992 to 1997.
Dick Roche was educated at Wexford Christian Brothers School and University College Dublin where he received Bachelor of Commerce Degree and a master's degree in Public Administration.
Dick Roche is married to Eleanor Griffin, and they have three sons and one daughter.
Dick Roche worked as a public servant at the Departments of Posts and Telegraphs, Transport and Power, Finance and at the Department of Economic Planning and Development.
Dick Roche subsequently became a member of the Irish Commission for Justice and Peace and served as a time as Chairman of the commission.
Dick Roche began his political career when he was elected for Greystones at the 1985 Wicklow County Council election.
Dick Roche lost his seat at the 1992 general election, but was elected to 20th Seanad.
Dick Roche introduced the Freedom of Information Bill 1995, based closely on the Norwegian freedom of information legislation.
Dick Roche was returned to the 28th Dail at the 1997 general election and remained a TD until 2011.
Dick Roche retained his seat at the 2007 general election, but on the formation of the new government, was the only member of the outgoing cabinet to be demoted.
Dick Roche's last act as minister was the signing of an order that was to lead to work being resumed on the controversial M3 motorway near the Hill of Tara.
Dick Roche was re-appointed as Minister of State for European Affairs, during which Ireland conducted two referendums on the Treaty of Lisbon.
Dick Roche was not present at the announcement of his elimination which was greeted by cheering and applause from a number of people at the count centre.