Every person deserves the right to a stable and affordable home. If elected to Fingal County Council I would work with my colleagues to maximise the use of public land for social and affordable housing.

I have worked closely with Minister for Housing Darragh O’Brien TD, who has served Fingal well during his political career. He, and the Government, are making steady progress in alleviating our housing crisis and his actions and policies are evident throughout Fingal.

My view is that it is essential to have a direct link between Fingal County Council, the Government, planning authorities and residents to make sure that there are no unnecessary blocks to new housing projects, to bring vacant homes back to the market and to encourage town living with appropriate community services, and that any concerns are listened to carefully and remedied for the benefit of all.

I will work hard to expand supports available to first time buyers and renters, while also incentivising landlords to stay in the rental market and to provide long-term leases through tax cuts. This includes protecting, extending and expanding the Help to Buy Scheme, the First Home Scheme, and the Vacancy Refurbishment Grants, among others.

Campaign for housing policies that benefit ordinary people, not landlords and developers, which has been the root cause of this housing crisis. Many families and young people of my generation have been locked out of the housing market. Housing isn't an investment, it should be a public good. Families and young children deserve dignity and to live with security in their home. We need to stop outsourcing our housing crisis to developers and third party agencies.

We need public housing on public land. If elected I would push for increased building of public housing by the council over so-called "turnkey" purchases from private developers: in 2019, figures from Housing Minister Darragh O'Brien showed Fingal County Council spent almost double (€412,000 vs. €209,300) when buying new build social homes from private developers compared to the amount spent on direct builds by the council.

But solving the housing crisis involves more than just building housing: the reality is that there are huge numbers of vacant homes in Ireland (166,000 according to the 2022 census), but the government's market policies incentivise land and property hoarding.

In January this year, DWS Group, a German asset management company with over €800 billion in assets and majority owned by Deutsche Bank, bought up 46 new homes in Belcamp Manor in Balgriffin for €24.5 million. The Business Post reported they immediately went up for rent for €3,175 per month. As of writing some are still up for rent at €3,250 per month. However, while this price is obscene and unaffordable for most in Ireland, what's important to understand is that DWS do not even care about the rent; this is just another investment to them, and these investors have a vested interest in keeping house prices high. I would push for a ban of all purchases by institutional investors.

People Before Profit also stands for a state construction company to build public homes on public land, and I will campaign for this. Housing should be a public good, not for profit.

On the issue of vacant homes, I would push for a tax on vacant homes that actually impacts land hoarders: the government's current 0.3% Vacant Homes Tax is completely ineffective at dissuading hoarding. I would also push compulsory purchase orders by the council on vacant and derelict residential properties across Fingal and use said properties for social and affordable housing.

I will continue to support people facing eviction, organising in the community and encouraging people in precarious housing situations to join tenants unions. This is crucial. There is so much hidden hardship that families and children are facing with housing precarity. The impact on mental health is profound. This should not be the new normal. We need to do more. I would use a platform in the local authority to build on this, build community tenants unions and hold government parties of FF, FG, the greens - who have sold out, to account

If we are to build 50,000 homes per annum up from 30,000 then we obviously need to make more appropriate land available for homes. I expect when the new housing targets are announced that a process will commence to look at land zoning in Q1. 2025 in Fingal and i will engage positively in that process to deliver more homes in Fingal   I would like to see bulders developers providing pre fab living accommodation for skilled building workers on medium to large sites for 2-3 years and remove that pre fab accommodation when the estate is built out. This is common practice across Europe. Restaurants Nursing homes Ryanair Supermacs provide living accommodation for workers In order to entice more skilled building workers to work in Ireland we need to look at that option. No planning permission required. No planning or service charges. Same system aa exemption for Housing for Ukraine refugees. In this case it's probably 1 and 2 storey pre fabs. 

That's something practical real that would assist building of more homes quicker. 

As a Fingal Council candidate deeply committed to addressing the pressing housing needs of our city, I advocate for a pragmatic approach to deliver safe, sustainable homes and communities. While progress is being made with approximately 12,000 homes in the pipeline, urgency is paramount in moving from conception to delivery.

I firmly support the Green Party's policy for public housing on public land, particularly the Cost Rental model (aka the Vienna Model) – this means constructing affordable rental properties on public land, and only charging the cost of construction (removing the profit motive and lowering rents), which ensures affordability and stability for our residents. We must avail of every opportunity to develop social and public housing on publicly owned land.

Additionally, I will work to crackdown on illegal full-time AirBnBs, reclaiming vital housing stock for the people of Dublin. As a party, we have also supported the introduction of a scheme to repurpose space above shops for residential use, a measure that could invigorate commercial districts while easing our housing shortage – we are making this a reality through the existing Croí Connaithe Scheme.

Embracing the Cost Rental model and reinforcing investment in the Housing First programme, will help our most vulnerable receive the support they need.

In addition, I will work to allocate additional resources to our council teams tasked with identifying and reclaiming vacant or derelict properties. I will work towards a housing strategy that meets the needs of all. 

I firstly will be identifying council lands in my LEA which are serviced adjacent to existing council housing for infill development - I had success previously in this which resulted in development in Balbriggan, Castlelands & Balrothery. These resulted in the development of 62 homes. The larger scale areas will be identified by the Sinn Féin team, with the strong team of Councillors using their combined knowledge & influence to push for more council building rather than relying on the private market & Part 5 Allocation.

Prioritising infrastructure and amenities are key to building community. Schools, Doctors, shops, childcare and recreational areas with good pedestrian access are essential components which I would advocate for.

As a young mum, an essential amenity for me in any new build estate is a crèche. Also, as a disabled person, it is essential that all new build estates work for all people with disabilities, whether those are visible or invisible disabilities.

As with anything, these essential viewpoints cannot possibly feed into planning and action unless people with these experiences are at the table. This is lacking in our current representation in the Balbriggan LEA and I want to bring fresh thinking to the table.

As we build more housing, the demand on services in our existing communities will be felt significantly so we need to be thinking ahead on GP services, schools, local club capacity, traffic management, and building the right amenities and shared space relative to the number of houses built in our community.

Care: Fingal is growing rapidly and has vibrant and diverse communities. However, poor planning has left us behind. We need to listen to our community and their needs. From talking to local residents, a key thing that has come up is childcare.

Childcare costs are still too high and many face real difficulties getting their kids places. The council can play a key role in providing community-led childcare. There is only 1 not-for-profit creche in Balbriggan. Childcare is unaffordable to many as the current model leaves it to the private market. I fully support not-for-profit creches, but we need to go further. I fully support a publicly-funded early childhood education and creche system nationwide, that values care workers and pays them a decent living wage.

The same applies to persons who have to go to a nursing home. We need a publicly funded model that makes it the state’s responsibility. There needs to be more options and and not for profit models that considers the dignity of people and their families.

Swimming Pool: In Balbriggan, we need to keep the pressure on to ensure that Balbriggan gets a swimming pool. I know from talking to local residents that there is much anger that it has taken so long. ​​For many the lack of action on the swimming pool symbolises how Balbriggan has been neglected and left behind in terms of services and local amenities. I am committed to continuing to support the campaign for a swimming pool, as well as campaigning for additional services and amenities for our community, putting the communities voices first and foremost.

Disabilities: Additional support for individuals with disabilities, autism, and dementia. This includes early intervention in childhood, but it also requires actively listening to local residents about their needs and how we can campaign on this as a community.

Decades of relying on private developers to build much needed amenities have failed.

I have called on government to substantially increase the sports capital fund to build more astroturf all weather pitches, build more public swimming pools in Balbriggan and swords build more community building. All these community facilities should be front loaded in phase 1 of any housing development. They are conditioned in masterplans development plans planning permission.

The day of these facilities being built 10 years after an estate is finished are over. If we increase housing targets by 60% from 30k to 50k then the national sports capital fund should be doubled in my view i.e. increased 100% from the current level of funding.

Skerries Bowling club are awaiting a €92,000 sports capital grant to upgrade their astroturf bowling green. Skerries Rugby Club are awaiting a €140,000 grant to upgrade the sports facilities at the club. We need 100% more projects like that in our growing communities. 

Ensuring good-quality standards for housing, especially regarding warmth and energy efficiency, is essential to creating healthy and sustainable communities. I am committed to elevating these standards across the board. In social housing, this means supporting a significant increase in maintenance budgets, enabling swift resolution of issues like upgrading to double-glazed windows, enhancing insulation, and combating mould problems.

Furthermore, I support for rounded approach to improving housing conditions, recognising the importance of broader civic amenities. Investing in parks and playgrounds not only enhances quality of life but also promotes community cohesion. Particularly in densely populated areas lacking private gardens, these shared green spaces are invaluable for families, as highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic.

My vision for Balbriggan, Skerries, Loughshinny and Balrothery encompasses not only the enhancement of individual dwellings but also the creation of thriving, inclusive neighbourhoods where every resident can enjoy a safe, comfortable home life.

During my previous term on Fingal County Council between 2014 -2019, I was instrumental in pushing for a Master Plan for Castlelands in Balbriggan, As part of the masterplan, a public consultation was undertaken which gave voice to the local community in relations to requirements for schools, open spaces, medical services etc.

I worked with local residents associations in regards to lobbying for such services. These have been planned for & with the Castleland Masterplan to get underway this year, I am eager to return to the council to safeguard all the essential amenities & services called for by the local area. I will also look to do this in any future master plans.

Dublin Airport is extremely important as it is a huge employer in the area. However the impact on the local community has to be considered and I fully support my colleagues Louise O'Reilly TD & sitting Councillor Ann Graves position on this matter.

Dublin Airport is obviously an extremely important piece of infrastructure for Ireland, and it is also a huge local employer in Fingal. However, it is important that DAA continues to work closely with local residents, local politicians and local groups to make sure that all stakeholders are working together and informed of any expansion plans or new operations, and that any new operations or works do not interrupt local peoples’ lives unnecessarily.

I strongly oppose the proposed expansion: it is not sustainable and makes life for many residents around it unbearable. During Covid we saw airlines tear up workers’ rights and contracts and so we don’t take seriously the supposed concerns of jobs and workers’ rights by the likes of Ryanair and Aer Lingus. We need sustainability in the long term with employment options for airport workers that guarantee wages and pensions in a just transition package. Privatisation of Aer lingus was a massive mistake that must be reversed so that we can properly manage our aviation needs in the future.

That matter is with Fingal Co Council as a live planning application. It's very unfortunate that 300 homes with agreed noise mitigation measures to be paid for by DAA Dublin Airport Authority are in limbo suffering adverse noise impact in their homes pending various decisions. I would like to see the noise insulation measures carried out as soon as possible.

I would like to see the airport developed in a compliant manner under the strict supervision of the ANCA airport noise authority. The airport is a serious economic generator and employer in Fingal and Ireland. Current issues will be decided in the courts and by the Planning authorities. 

While I acknowledge the importance of Dublin Airport both as a strategic and economic transport hub, the introduction of the north runway has had a detrimental impact on those living close to the airport and under the flight paths. It's clear they are not following the flight paths that were outlined in the 2007 planning application for the north runway and that they are impacting communities. Infringements of planning regulations by any industry are not acceptable. 

Given the existing transport infrastructure, I don't believe that a major expansion of the airport should be considered soon. Residents are already suffering from severe noise pollution and traffic congestion and any expansion would only make this worse. Any expansion should only be considered once better transport links like the Metro are complete and some way found to reduce the noise impact on residents. In the meantime, we should look at developing our regional airports and move away from our Dublin-centric model.

I am very concerned about the impact on the local communities & support my party colleagues Louise O'Reilly TD & sitting Councillor Ann Graves in this.

Balbriggan needs more buses on at peak times. Being late for work because your bus was full and did not stop is not good enough.

Trains need more carriages at peak times. Having to stand for most of you journey before your work day starts is not fair.

We need our local link bus to include all the outlying estates in the town, to make the service inclusive to all.

The short answer is: much needs to be done. As the Balbriggan LEA is North County Dublin, it is essential that links with Dublin City are working on time and well and working for the needs of all commuters. Our trains and buses are good when they work, but an issue is with infrequent timetables, delays without notice or replacement and overcrowding with no solutions.

A lot of my constituency is under-served by public transport and there needs to be more cohesive thinking on connectivity. I am hugely supportive of Metrolink; however, it would be a real missed opportunity if this does not join up with the existing Dublin-Belfast railway line with DART and Commuter railway services as well as bus services in Fingal. Also, disabled people need to be offered the same level of service as any other public transport user.

I will engage with all transport operators to ensure that public transport infrastructure, vehicles, and services are accessible to people with disabilities and reduced mobility, including the provision of wheelchair ramps, priority seating, audible announcements, and tactile paving at stations and stops.

Free Fares: We need sustainable transport solutions. The cost of eliminating public transport fares is 550 million. However we need more investment to improve transport and frequency. This would have a massive impact on people’s lives and the environment. Our policies should not tax ordinary people with congestion charges which the green party proposes. We should campaign for policies that improve people's lives and consider people and the Planet Before Profit.

From listening to students in Balbriggan and Skerries who travel to TU Dublin’s Blanchardstown Campus, that there is no direct route means their travel times can at times be in excess of two hours each way. Compared with what is typically a forty minute car journey, it’s clear that more routes are needed to make the journey practical. But this is just one example; the reality is that a dearth of routes across different regions in Fingal makes it impractical to travel across the region by public transport. I will campaign to continue community pressure to extend the Dart line to North County Dublin. In addition, increase Dublin Bus routes in Balbriggan and Skerries.

We need joined up connected active travel cycling walking routes in "appropriate locations " where they fit and will work.

We need a transport hub at Lissenhall north of Swords on the land bought for that purpose.

Better and more frequent bus service to and from the airport. A active travel cycling walking pathfinder project connecting Dublin Airport to swords population 45,000 Its in the Fingal and Government Programme. We need an upgraded more extensive bus service from Balbriggan to Dublin including Balrothery  

The Greens nationally have made public transport a priority and funded major projects everywhere, while cutting fares by 20% for adults and 60% for young people. Public transport use grew by 25% last year alone, which shows the value of investment.

Councillors don’t control this directly, but what we do have some say over is the allocation of road space. We need to dedicate more road space to bus lanes - it isn’t right that a bus with 60 people is stuck in traffic behind a car with just one person. We need to elect councillors who will stand up to extreme pressure from the motoring lobby. We need to work productively with the NTA and other bodies who are leading on the delivery to ensure the projects are of maximum benefit to the community. Where there are issues, I will work closely with communities to highlight local concerns and push for improvements in safety for people walking and cycling, greening for the area and traffic calming. 

We need to see public transport improvements delivered quickly so that we can benefit from more frequent, reliable services. I would strongly support the council using cameras to detect red light breakers and illegal bus lane users, to make public transport flow more smoothly. This sort of work would also work best with improved provision of disabled parking spaces and commercial loading bays.

Improved accessibility of our buses and trains is also key, so that public transport can be an option for everyone, especially older people, people with disabilities, and those travelling with children in buggies. It is particularly important to have winter maintenance plans in place so that we can prioritise the movement of public transport during extreme weather events rather than focusing on the movement of private cars. 

The continuing delays in Metro North & slow progress in the Dart extension to Balbriggan is at odds with the massive increase in population across Fingal.

As part of a Sinn Féin team in Fingal, I will be pushing for the work of the recent public consultation to be prioritised & its findings acted upon. The RPA's cost benefit analysis proved that this project was worth the considerable investment and the current climate for the construction industry means that the work required will continue to increase in cost, therefore we need to expedite the process . Other projects under consideration are not shovel ready and do not offer the wide ranging benefits to the city that Metro North does.

Local knowledge should be taken on board by local authorities, when making traffic management decisions. Ramps should be installed in estates to reduce speed where children are vulnerable.

Fingal County Council has done great work in using active travel funding to improve our roads. However, due to the need for cars as a mode of transport in rural areas such as mine, and for people with mobility issues, it is important that car users are factored into any further planning and works.

It is also essential for planners and engineers to take account of farm machinery given the more rural nature of North County Fingal. The towns of Skerries, Balbriggan, Loughshinny and Balrothery are all historic and beautiful and they are friendly places for people to visit on foot or by bike. My view is that constant and continual communication between all stakeholders is the way to make sure our roads and spaces work for everyone.

Firstly, we need more consistent cycle lanes. Balbriggan for example has patchy cycle lanes that begin and end arbitrarily, making cycling feel unsafe. Another key point is to reduce traffic congestion by introducing free fares for public transport.

Additionally, both cycle lanes and footpaths should account for disability and accessibility needs. In Balbriggan, recent works by the crossroads at St. Peter’s and Paul’s Cemetery introduced a steep curb that residents have complained is inaccessible for wheelchair users. That this occurred without consultation from nearby residents shows negligence and a lack of concern for local residents. The council must listen to the community and build a city that everyone can access.

Dedicated segregated bicycle lanes. Full stop. 

I will prioritise investing in making roads safer with lower speed limits, with a move to 30km/h zones as a default in towns, to protect motorists, pedestrians, cyclists, and reduce crashes. I will push for infrastructural improvements to tackle speeding and ensure that roads are designed to prioritise road safety, particularly that of children and other vulnerable road users. 

Segregated bike lanes will increase cyclist safety and lower the number of accidents on the road. This should be done as part of a network, not just small bits of unconnected lanes, and be safe enough for everyone from young children to pensioners to be able to use with confidence. These cycle lanes should be segregated by a small kerb at the very least – not just a white line. That’s especially important near schools. This work will be politically difficult - it will need the backing of dedicated councillors who strongly believe in the cycling and walking agenda. 

I will support “bike parks”, converting a small area in a car park for free, secure bike parking, particularly near transport hubs, as well as “Bike Bunkers” and look forward to supporting residents in getting them installed on their streets over the next few years.

We also need zebra crossings at minor junctions, to provide for pedestrian priority, alongside safer crossing points – we’ve worked to secure a reduction in the cost of installing such crossings so that they can be used much more. That, combined with improved and widened footpaths would really improve things for pedestrians - particularly those who need extra time or space. We need to ensure that temporary works do not cut off access to cycleways and footpaths. I will also push for lighting that is “human scale” directed at footpaths instead of towards carriageways, often leaving our paths in near darkness. Benches are also key to ensure that people who are walking can get a rest.

Many of the lights in our junctions at busy periods heavily prioritise cars - at the expense of people walking. You will see hundreds of pedestrians forced to wait for car traffic to pass, which inexplicably enjoys more time. I want junction timing that prioritises disabled people, pedestrians, bikes, public transport - in that order.

I will also champion the introduction of annual car-free days in specific areas, to enable local markets and festivals, supporting communities that want car-free neighbourhoods.

The greater investment in walkways & cycleways has been undertaken by Fingal, but there is always opportunities to put in place perimeter walking & cycling ways at the early stages of projects such as the Bremore Regional Park, as with many more clubs forming resulting following the end of the lockdown period, greater investment & greater emphasis on our mental well being should be a factor in developing the county development plan in regards to walkways & cycleways, I will very much prioritise this as I had previously in the last two plans.

Improved public transport, would encourage people to leave their cars at home. Ensure footpaths are well maintained and accessible for those who have mobility issues.

Education from early years at school is an important first step in making our roads safer and this should then filter through to up-to-date theory and driving tests. Speed limits that suit individual roads and that work for road users should be considered, but again, as with any change, it is essential to bring all stakeholders together in planning any changes.

We must listen carefully to victims’ families and victim advocacy groups and hear first-hand their experiences and then learn from these experiences to help improve our roads and make them safer for everyone.

Making roads safer requires minimising the most dangerous vehicles on roads, such as SUVs and freight vehicles. I advocate for a ban on SUVs and limits to their usage as they are wholly unnecessary on urban roads.

Regarding freight vehicles: the best way to get them off the road is to use alternative modes of transport such as rail. Ireland is one of the few countries that doesn’t subsidise rail freight and so we should start using our rail system instead which would make roads safer and reduce traffic congestion. We also need to provide extensive school buses to prevent congestion caused by morning school runs.

We also need more sustainable transport solutions. People use their car because they have no alternative, and for some it's the cheaper and most accessible option. We need more public transport options that are accessible to people with disabilities. In addition, I fully support a four day work week with no loss of pay and more remote options for workers. This is a key environmental demand. Working less, means less car use.

We can see from Covid, the change in our society and how valuable our time is with family and friends. A four day work week, and more remote working options would cut down on car use and be better for our communities well-being. I fully support and will campaign with any Trade Union campaigning on this.

Cut the speed limit in all towns and villages in Fingal to 30km Per Hour. We are going to do that in Fingal.

I will prioritise investing in making roads safer with lower speed limits, with a move to 30km/h zones as a default in towns, to protect motorists, pedestrians, cyclists, and reduce crashes. I will push for infrastructural improvements to tackle speeding and ensure that roads are designed to prioritise road safety, particularly that of children and other vulnerable road users. 

Segregated bike lanes will increase cyclist safety and lower the number of accidents on the road. This should be done as part of a network, not just small bits of unconnected lanes, and be safe enough for everyone from young children to pensioners to be able to use with confidence. These cycle lanes should be segregated by a small kerb at the very least – not just a white line. That’s especially important near schools. This work will be politically difficult - it will need the backing of dedicated councillors who strongly believe in the cycling and walking agenda. 

I will support “bike parks”, converting a small area in a car park for free, secure bike parking, particularly near transport hubs, as well as “Bike Bunkers” and look forward to supporting residents in getting them installed on their streets over the next few years.

We also need zebra crossings at minor junctions, to provide for pedestrian priority, alongside safer crossing points – we’ve worked to secure a reduction in the cost of installing such crossings so that they can be used much more. That, combined with improved and widened footpaths would really improve things for pedestrians - particularly those who need extra time or space. We need to ensure that temporary works do not cut off access to cycleways and footpaths. I will also push for lighting that is “human scale” directed at footpaths instead of towards carriageways, often leaving our paths in near darkness. Benches are also key to ensure that people who are walking can get a rest.

Many of the lights in our junctions at busy periods heavily prioritise cars - at the expense of people walking. You will see hundreds of pedestrians forced to wait for car traffic to pass, which inexplicably enjoys more time. I want junction timing that prioritises disabled people, pedestrians, bikes, public transport - in that order.

I will also champion the introduction of annual car-free days in specific areas, to enable local markets and festivals, supporting communities that want car-free neighbourhoods.

One of the main concerns by myself is the safety of Children around Schools during school hours, the schools team within the council needs greater investment to facilitate the works that need to be undertaken to make the areas around our schools safer, As a parent of 3 school going children, this is a priority for myself if elected.

All new developments need to include open green spaces for children to play and pocket parks for families and seniors to sit and relax. Also, areas for trees and pollinator planting.

I would look to have more Grants made available for Tidy Towns, resident's groups, schools etc. to promote and carry out biodiversity projects.

Everyone wants to live in a pleasant space and environment and access to green spaces is necessary for our health as well as the wellbeing of our natural habitat. I am passionate about supporting local sustainability and environmental groups to push for more greenery, trees, and public seating along footpaths to create a more attractive and inviting environment for everyone.

Living in a coastal community, I see daily the impact that climate change is having on our community and need to do our utmost to support bees, our animals, natural flora and fauna and plant more trees to safeguard our environment.

The first and most important thing to recognise is that biodiversity isn't just spontaneously disappearing; biodiversity is being destroyed through habitat destruction and overexploitation. The biggest danger that life on earth faces, climate destruction, is inextricably linked. Data centres took up 18% of Ireland's electricity supply in 2022, with that figure expected to nearly double to 32% by 2026. These figures are almost ten times the EU average and are fundamentally at odds with what we should be doing which is reducing climate emissions. Without these data centres, Ireland could transition to almost entirely renewable energy sources, which are actually cheaper than non-renewable sources. These data centres are used by US corporations to generate massive profits and do not contribute to the wellbeing of people nor the planet. I will push to ban the construction of more data centres in Fingal.

One more simple suggestion: leave nature alone. If marram grass grows naturally on the beach, for example, leaving that alone is the easiest increase in biodiversity. And yet in spite of this seemingly obvious inaction, I have heard multiple separate instances across Balbriggan where the council removes swathes of hedges, bushes and trees without any explanation and with no consultation of, or even notifying, locals. The council needs to start listening to what local communities want and be transparent about the actions it takes in the region’s natural areas.

Fingal has a "biodiversity action plan" with a dedicated team of biodiversity officers. We will implement that plan and the actions in it. 

Last year Fingal CC announced a Biodiversity Action Plan that included 100 different actions to protect nature and improve biodiversity in the county that has been seriously damaged by development, pollution, and climate change. The Green Party has hugely increased the funding of the National Parks and Wildlife Service, and ensured the funding for the appointment of bioversity officers in every Local Authority – we want to make their work as success and support their efforts as they work to reintroduce a biodiversity positive approach throughout the work of Fingal County Council. 

We need to reverse some of the damage that has been done and there are fantastic community groups all over the county doing great work on the ground and a huge interest in improving and protecting nature – the Greens are keen to support them wherever we can, politically, financially and practically. 

I would look to put in place a larger fund to support our Tidy Towns & environmental groups across Fingal as well as an increase in the budget for detection of illegal dumping through roving CCTV cameras. An increased budget allocation to rewilding key open spaces must be undertaken to counteract the extensive development across the local authority area

As a member of Balbriggan Community Council, I was involved in the setting up of the Playground and Balbriggan Skate Park Committees, both of which I was a member off. Five years and 900 letters of submission in support later, we achieved our goal. It was a large team effort involving our two extremely hard-working committees, the community and Our Balbriggan. I am extremely passionate about getting more facilities for our youth.

I am deeply embedded in my community, where access to land to build parks and sports facilities can be a real challenge. However, despite being a first-time candidate, I have already worked closely with my elected colleagues on leveraging available funds to develop parks in Skerries & Balbriggan to date. The refurbishment of the Floraville sensory garden in Skerries is nearly complete and the Our Balbriggan funds enabled building a pocket park in Balbriggan.

We have sports clubs on land and sea in the Balbriggan LEA that only continue to grow and so their need for better facilities is massive – notably upgrading of waterlogged pitches and drainage needed as well as halls to host indoor sports and events. Our young population in the North County is only increasing so a heavy focus on parks and sports facilities is needed.  

Covid showed us how important public spaces and places are. Dublin has been blighted with private developments that prioritise the profits of builders and developers, and leave the public facilities communities need to the last or as an afterthought. A key role for councils here is to ensure parks and public spaces are delivered before or during any future development.

The council needs to use their power to CPO for lands that can be developed for community use and not allow land hoarding or speculation to determine what is delivered. The balbriggan pool saga is a salutary lesson in what happens when we wait for private interests to deliver key public goods.

"Buy more land." they ain't making anymore of it. I am working on a project to acquire 32 acres for a sports hub and other facilities in Fingal. If strategic lands come for sale. Fingal Co Council should buy that land for public use. Look at Ardgillan desmesne, Malahide Castle, Newbridge desmesne. Great vision and ambition to buy those lands many years ago for the public good.

To ensure sufficient facilities are provided for to a growing population it needs to be built into our planning system. Sites and locations must be identified prior to any building being undertaken. I believe that this has been improved upon in the last development plan, but we have a lot to catch up on.

One major issue for me is that lack of public swimming pools in the county and the overreliance on private sports clubs to teach children to swim. Parents are currently driving great distances and at huge inconvenience to access a swimming pool. I believe all children in urban areas should have access to a public pool by foot or on public transport.

All towns should have easy access to open spaces where people and children can be in nature. Access to nature is essential for both physical and mental health. We are lucky in Fingal to have so many beautiful parks and beaches, but we need to ensure all our citizens have better access to them and ensure they are open at times when they can be appreciated.

I would utilise the planning process & the development levies to increase spaces for the range of clubs across my LEA. There is a lesser priority on shared sports spaces as well as facilities than what is required for such sports as Cricket, Soccer, GAA & Rugby. It is important that such associations are supported so they can support our every increasing young population