Laois Local Election Q & A: Portlaoise candidate claims passion for community

What are your priorities?
Improving health services in particular mental health, autism & disability services.
Driving council support for cooperative housing projects.
Improving roads and paths and tackling crime and anti-social behaviour by collaborating with community policing.
Building creative outlets and services for our young people including a new sports complex for all in our community.
Improved local and rural link transport services accessible town bus services.

What is the biggest issue facing your area?
Housing, lack of services in all areas of healthcare, more school places especially in areas of disability and sports facilities.
The Kolbe School needs to be completed and I will support a new sports facility for all abilities to be built.
I will support the building of a much needed new primary care centre in Portlaoise to reduce wait times for GPs and other vital services.
I will support Sinn Féin’s plans for social and affordable housing which will bring rent prices down.
I want to be part of setting the groundwork for an education system that suits the needs of all our children and that starts locally with planning for more school places.

Why do you think you would make a good County Councillor?
I care about people and their wellbeing and quality of life. I have a passion for helping in the community. I’m in tune with the local issues. If I promise something I will leave no stone unturned to try to achieve it. I am dedicated to being a proactive, empathetic, and accessible representative for all in our area.

Maria McCormack 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.