'Ireland is full' believers must be listened to says Laois local election candidate

A Laois local election candidate believes those advocating the 'Ireland is full' message about immigration to Ireland should be listened to.

However, Bolaji Adeyanju, who wants to win a seat on Laois County Council, insists that the best countries benefit from diversity and immigration will help Irish people get vital services.

Mr Adeyanju, who has lived in Portlaoise for eight years, did not shy away from immigration being an issue and potential racist campaigning taking place in the run-up to voting in June.

A founding member of the Laois African Support Group and the Laois Integration Network, his manifesto includes promoting diversity through active citizenship. 

Given the support Irish people have given to the support group and network, he does not believe there is evidence in Laois that racism will be a factor in the county council elections. However, he is aware of views on immigration are being expressed in the form of slogans and says they should not be ignored.

"Everyone has the right to an opinion...I think we need to listen to the people who are saying Ireland is full and ask what are the reasons and why are you saying that," he said.

He believes one justification for immigration is the need to staff essential services in Ireland. He said many services have vacancies and recruitment from abroad is one solution. He said if such people are not recruited from overseas, services may not be possible to deliver to Irish people on waiting lists.

The candidate, who wants to represent the Portlaoise Municipal District as an independent, also believes that diversity makes countries better. MORE BELOW PICTURE.

Africa Day at Portlaoise Leisure Centre in 2022 were Cllr Conor Bergin, presenting the Soccer Runner-up Cert to Garda Annie Hunt with Sgt Jason Hughes and on left is Bolaji Adeyanju. Photo: Michael Scully

"If you look at the best countries in the world they have developed from integration and inclusion and Ireland is good on that front," he said.  

The African national also issued a written statement announcing that he intended to contest the June local elections.

"It is with great humility and determination that I present to you my vision for our community's future as your potential councillor.

"I hold steadfastly to the belief that our towns, villages and townlands' strengths lie in the well-being, development, and unity of all its people, from our youth, to families, to our senior citizens and vulnerable groups.

"With your trust and support, I pledge to passionately prioritise our communities development and to create opportunities for all people to succeed," he said.

"Together, let us embark upon a journey of collective progress and prosperity, wherein everyone can find fulfilment, every family thrives, and every person's voice is heard.

"With your support and participation, we shall forge a community that stands as a beacon of hope, resilience, and unity for generations to come.

He outlined the following key manifesto points which he said is rooted in the principles of empowerment, unity, and inclusivity.

• Affordable Housing through the County Council and other bodies
• Supporting people with disabilities and/or chronic illnesses and carers
• Available health services for all in tje Local Electoral Area
• Accessible community centres and sporting facilities for all
• Employment & work experience opportunities for all people
• Supporting young people and families
• Promoting Diversity through active citizenship and various events
• Driving the core values of empowerment, inclusivity and unity

MORE BELOW PIC.

Bolaji Adeyanju and others including Sean Fleming TD, Charlie Flanagan TD at the Official Opening of Africa Day at Portlaoise Leisure Centre in 2022. 

He outlined his qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science in Economics and Diploma in Banking.
• Bachelor of Arts in Community Development and Active Citizenships.
• Youth Support Worker.

Mr Adeyanju is married with four children. 

If elected he will follow in the footsteps of African-born Rotimi Adebari as a councillor in the Portlaoise area. Mr Adebari became Ireland's first black Mayor when he was elected the Cathaoirleach of Portlaoise Town Council in 2007.