Social Democrats aiming for Limerick city and county representation
THE LEADER of the Social Democrats said it was “lovely” to meet the people of Limerick during her visit last weekend.
Catherine Murphy TD was in the Treaty County for a party 'Think-In' event held at the Strand Hotel to discuss local government reform.
While in the city, Ms Murphy, who is a co-leader of the party with Roisin Shortall, took the time during the day to visit some stall owners at the Milk Market and meet people from various lobby groups.
The Kildare North TD said she has been to the Milk Market many times before but it was “great” to see it so vibrant on Saturday last.
“I talked to stall holders and met with individuals as well about how things are going for them. It was great to meet them that way and just have a chat over a cup of tea”.
The party leader also met with members of various lobby groups in the city to discuss particular issues with them.
“There was a great variety of things raised and spoken about. We met with cycling groups, people advocating for active travel and those concerned about the absence of services for people with diabetes in the region.
“I also spoke to people about environmental pollution, autism services and representatives from the Women's Network.
“A wide breadth of things were raised including the absence of services and how it affects people in Limerick and the Mid-West. It is like a postcode lottery in terms of services, they can be good in one place and non-existent in another.”
The issue of healthcare was also raised with Ms Murphy highlighting the recent protest in Limerick city regarding overcrowding at UHL, saying the thousands of people who took to the streets were “right to do so”.
“It was very helpful to hear people's lived experiences and obviously the issue of healthcare and the pressure UHL is under came up.
“It was a very useful visit and it was great to meet people in that kind of environment. We will be following up on issues raised and get back to people through Elisa O'Donovan.”
Currently, Limerick has one Social Democrats representative, Ms O'Donovan. However, Ms Murphy says they hope to have more seats in the future.
“We would like to be in a situation where we have a candidate in the city and the county, and we would also like to contest the local elections.
“We have a good branch in Limerick. It would be wonderful if we could have greater representation on the local council and we are working towards that.”