13.
Gino O'Boyle has been a member of Sligo County Council since 2015 for the People Before Profit Party when he was co-opted to succeed his late father, Seamus and has successfully defended the seat in the two local elections since. From Forthill, Sligo, he contested the 2020 general election and received almost 1,800 first preference votes but failed to take a seat. In a recent social media post, he has outlined the healthcare system and the housing crisis as the biggest issues facing the electorate. “The healthcare system is at its knees. They're (Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil) Americanising the public healthcare system and downgrading the service to push people into private healthcare. Also the housing crisis is a complete profit making machine with only the wealthy able to afford to buy homes,” he said.
14.
Paddy O’Rourke is contesting in the upcoming general election on behalf of Fianna Fáil, while currently serving his third term as Cathaoirleach. On why he decided to run, the farmer and business owner said: “Over the years I feel I have gained the necessary experience, equipping me to represent the constituency at national level, “Living and working in Leitrim, I know the issues that affect our people, ranging from housing, health, both mental and physical, disabilities and issues concerning those caring for the elderly and those with disabilities,” he added. Mr O’Rourke’s key policies include prioritising childcare, addressing farmers' concerns in regard to the national climate change prevention measures, and wishes to implement a worthwhile farm retirement scheme, along with more support for incoming younger farmers. The father of three is also passionate about the tourism industry, which he believes needs further development in order to reach its maximum potential and provide sustainable jobs into the future. Other priorities, if elected, include infrastructure, where O’Rourke aims to improve the N4 and Carrick Bypass, stating these measures “simply have to happen.” Extension of the sewage network to the Hartley district at Carrick on Shannon along with several other locations at what’s an affordable cost, likewise with water connections, is also at the top of his list. The Fianna Fáil candidate hopes to secure more, and better-resourced, Gardai to protect the community and reassure the elderly that they are safe. Mr O’Rourke said, “I enjoy challenges, and representing Leitrim in putting right the many deficits which have arisen in our county, resulting from not having a voice on the Government benches, would be something I would look forward to.”
15.
Having previously been a representative as TD, Senator and Councillor, Eamon Scanlon has vast political experience. He said: “The need for strong, compassionate and effective representation has never been more important. I commit to representing this region with hard work and integrity.” Also an advocate for the Carrick-On-Shannon bypass progression, the auctioneer strives to support rural communities and farmers alike, as well as ensuring that a new school is built in the same area as the bypass, and that forestry is managed appropriately. The Ballymonte native aims to help towns and villages across Leitrim to feel supported, so they can thrive. The 70-year-old said: “In addition, I want to see more people living in Leitrim by supporting housing development and making the cost of living easier for people. I want to see cheaper childcare and better support for our carers, people with disabilities and funding for our health services.” The Database Support Engineer will also seek, if elected, to stop animal testing and incorporate animal welfare in education. Other priorities include immediate action to address climate change by investing in sustainable practices, such as building sustainable social housing and redirecting grants towards sustainable agriculture.