Barry Walsh Fine Gael is contesting in the Portlaoise Electoral Area
What are your priorities?
Being actively involved in community development, I want to see continued investment in town and village regeneration. In particular, we must continue to support public realm improvements and rural regeneration projects that bring vibrancy to our areas. A key priority for me is investment in sporting and recreational infrastructure that will cater for the increased participation in all activities.
We need to continue to promote Laois as an attractive location for investment and support our SMEs in the county to be able to expand their businesses and create further employment. We must continue to support farm families and make it easier for them to adopt progressive rural practices. In eliminating unnecessary bureaucracy and supporting them to be innovative we can help them to become more economically sustainable.
What is the biggest issue in your area?
Affordable housing is the number one issue on the doors and we have to ensure that people who do not qualify for social housing and are currently unable to access the current housing market due to the cost must be provided with the supports necessary to do so. Housing affordability and home ownership must be prioritised over the next term of the council.
Why would I make a good county councillor?
In less than two and a half years on the Council, I have already established a track record of delivery. I am always available to meet with people, listen to their concerns and work on their behalf to resolve the issues that matter to them. I am grounded within my own community and I have a vision for how we as councillors and council can improve people’s lives.
Barry Walsh is a candidate in the Portlaoise Municipal District where seven councillors will be elected. 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.
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