Laois Local Election Q & A: Portlaoise candidate's promise is 'answers and action'

What are your priorities?
To produce openness and transparency from the Council, semi-states, Government departments and county councillors in response to questions.
Ensure that services like roads/streetlights in all estates are prioritised and the failed taking in charge process is eradicated and instead the process properly resourced.
Building the Portlaoise Northern Orbital Road which was needed for residents 10 years ago.
CCTV for all estates to deter and prevent crime and antisocial behaviour together with strong residents associations backed by strengthened community policing.
Ensure owners of Management Companies which thousands of Portlaoise flat/apartment and homeowners are legally tied to are answerable to their members, open and accountable.

Biggest issue facing your area?
The biggest issue facing my area is for individuals, couples, families, all under serious work and financial pressures to feel safe/secure, part of a community whose voice is always heard and able to enjoy their lives, homes and where they live.

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

I know I will be a good Councillor because I've been a local activist for years holding only the power of any resident, so I know what needs fixing. Councillors are elected public representatives/ members of a statutory public body.
They hold public /government bodies to account. As an independent I won't be governed/ hamstrung by a political party so will not be restricted in my governance/oversight of the local authority. I will be working directly for the people of Portlaoise providing them with Answers and Action.

John Cowhig 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.