How would you help get more housing built in the city – especially social and affordable housing?
Since taking office in 2019 my area had more social housing approved for planning than it has in the last three decades. I would continue to work with my colleagues to agree sites and plans that allow substantial living, like we did with Oscar Traynor site which will deliver 853 units over the next 18 months.
How would you help improve conditions in existing housing, both social and privately rented?
While the council has no involvement in the private sector, in relation to social housing conditions, maintenance and timely maintenance is key. That's why lat year I brought forward a motion which passed that the council hire at least 50 new apprentices. I will continue to advocate for more direct labour on the council.
What would you do to help make the city feel less dirty, tackling the rubbish and dog poo all over the streets?
This year in the budget we allocated funds for more dog wardens. This is something I will continue if re-elected.
What would you do to help tackle vacancy and dereliction?
The vacant tax grant has improved applications, and last year when the vacant tax office in DCC was struggling I pressed the minister for more resources. I will also again support the increase of the level.
What needs to be done to make the city feel safer?
We need a directly elected mayor with community policing power. However I will continue to support the DCC women committee to increase safety in the city and continue to work on better street lighting.
What needs to be done to improve public transport in the city?
More light rail in the city. We need user-friendly public transport. I want to see my proposal for a tram line from Northwood to Harmonstown Station approved.
What should be done to make it nicer and safer for people to get around the city on foot and by bike?
We need to focus on light rail transport there has been huge investment in cycle lanes over the last five years.
What would you do to help counter the rise of the far right, anti-immigrant and anti-LGBTQ+ hate, and anti-asylum-seeker arsons?
The council is working on more community activities and I have asked for a diversity event in Whitehall which will take place in Q3 2024.