Laois Local Election Q & A: Portlaoise candidate focused on Laois youth

What are your priorities?
Rejuvenating towns throughout Laois.
Fight for adequate resources for special needs children. Start the dialogue needed in relation to a third level hub in Portlaoise.
Having a background in farming, I would fight and help the farming community with their priorities including land tax, ash die back and red tape issues.
Represent young people.
Improve communication about services, facilities and grants available.
Advocate for additional resources now for Laois Domestic Abuse Services.
Continue to fight for an indoor Laois sports complex.
Environment – Enhance awareness of the Portlaoise Low Carbon Town Initiative and continue to work with the committee I am part of about repurposing old train tracks on disused bogs stretching across south Laois.
Housing.
Heritage, Arts and Tourism - Continue to maximise initiatives to promote what I call the ‘Magical Midlands’.

What is the biggest issue facing your area?
It is hard to pick just one issue when there are so many – not least the cost of living, housing, health, education, immigration/emigration and support for businesses. However, if I was to highlight one issue it would be the lack of facilities for young people in Laois.

Why I would make a good County Councillor?
I would make an excellent County Councillor because I am professional, friendly, approachable, hardworking and good fun.
I have a proven track record and ability to communicate, promote and stand up for what matters in Laois. I genuinely care. And nothing will change if nothing changes.

Pauline Flanagan 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.