British Politician and MP for Kingswood, South Gloucestershire
Damien James Egan, born in 1982 or 1983, is a prominent British politician who currently serves as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Kingswood in South Gloucestershire since February 15, 2024. His political journey includes significant roles within the Labour Party, such as being the Mayor of Lewisham in Greater London from May 7, 2018, to January 9, 2024.
Early Life and Education
From Cork, Ireland, to Political Leadership
Egan’s early life unfolds in Cork, Ireland, where he was born in 1982 or 1983. Facing homelessness during his childhood, his family lived in temporary accommodation, shaping his resilience. Growing up in northeast Bristol, England, Egan attended Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School and Hanham High School. His educational journey continued at St Mary’s University College, Twickenham, before he ventured to Lewisham after graduation.
Political Ascendancy
From Bristol Suburbs to London’s Political Stage
Egan’s political career began as a parish councillor in Bristol suburbs before moving to London. Over the years, he contested in several general elections, including bids for Weston-super-Mare in 2005 and Beckenham in 2010, solidifying his dedication to public service. In 2010, he became a Councillor for Lewisham Central and later assumed the role of the Council’s cabinet member for housing in 2014.
Mayoral Tenure in Lewisham
Championing Education, Climate Action, and Sanctuary
Egan’s impactful stint as the Mayor of Lewisham from May 7, 2018, to January 9, 2024, showcased his commitment to education, climate crisis management, and the Borough of Sanctuary initiative. Under his leadership, Lewisham schools saw improvements, and the borough earned the title of the UK’s first Council of Sanctuary in 2021. Egan’s focus on climate action led to Lewisham Council’s early declaration of a climate emergency and initiatives to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030.
Contributions to Education, Sanctuary, and Climate Crisis
Transformative Policies and Initiatives
Egan’s efforts in education, as reflected in his collaboration with Lewisham Learning Partnership, aimed at addressing race inequalities and fostering initiatives like the Lewisham Young Leaders Academy. Additionally, his governance marked Lewisham as a pioneer in tackling the climate crisis, with notable achievements in park ratings, renewable energy adoption, and recycling rate improvements.
Housing Initiatives and Governance Challenges
Building Homes and Facing Governance Critique
In housing, Egan spearheaded the delivery of social homes and actively pursued the goal of achieving 50% genuinely affordable homes in developer-led projects. However, his governance faced challenges, including controversies surrounding the departure of Lewisham Council CEOs and protests.
Personal Life
From Catholicism to Judaism: A Personal Transformation
On a personal note, Egan’s life is intertwined with his marriage to Israeli-born Yossi Felberbaum. Despite being raised a Catholic, Egan underwent a significant personal transformation, converting to Judaism, aligning with his husband’s faith.
