Laois Local Election Q & A: 'Gaining the trust of our communities'

What are my priorities?

I am proud to have represented the Borris in Ossory/Mountmellick Municipal District since 2014 and being a councillor is all about giving back to the community by being their voice and bringing an energy, passion and can-do attitude.
My priority has always been to gain the trust of our communities and gain their confidence by being a straight talker and striving to do my best to deliver on the requests and issues presented to me.
One of the priorities from the people is road safety for all and I have requested over the last number of years the appointment by Laois County Council of a permanent position of a road safety officer for the county.
In our housing estates we need to implement safety measures in a similar way to how we improved safety outside our schools.

What is the biggest issue facing your area?

There are a number of issues that need to be addressed as a matter of urgency. The most pressing issue in Mountrath is the development of a new Primary Care Centre as the old health centre is less than a third of the size required to meet the criteria for a Primary Care Centre.

Developing and implementing proposals that can make a lasting impact in revitalising our towns and villages across the county continues to be a priority.

Other issues include housing supply, river maintenance and the need for Laois County Council to engage with the farming community in relation to environmental inspections and the planning process.

Why do you think you would make a good County Councillor?

Being a councillor for the last 10 years I know what it takes to be a good councillor. I have always been an active member of our communities, I have always been hard working, approachable with a can do attitude and even though I am an Independent Councillor, I have, when required, been a team player for the benefit of our communities.

James Kelly is a candidate in the Borris-in-Ossory Mountmellick Municipal District. In the lead up to polling day on June 7 we will be featuring profiles on all 47 candidates vying for a seat on Laois County Council.