Green Party candidate Adam Ó Ceallaigh discusses broadband for Leitrim with Minister Ossian Smyth
Advocating for sustainable policies that prioritise environmental protection
Adam Ó Ceallaigh, the Green Party candidate for the Ballinamore Local Electoral Area (LEA), engaged in a meeting on Monday, February 19, with Minister of State Ossian Smyth at Leinster House in Dublin. Minister Smyth, is responsible for Public Procurement, eGovernment, and Circular Economy.
Minister Smyth recently signed legislation enabling councils to use CCTV cameras to address illegal dumping. This legislation has been welcomed nationally as a strong step to combating illegal dumping.
Adam Ó Ceallaigh commented on this saying ‘Our communities have been burdened for too long by the blight of litter and dumping black spots. This is a great step to protecting our countryside and rural areas.’
Moreover, Adam raised concerns regarding teething issues with the Deposit Return Scheme, Minister Smyth said, ‘The project is expected to massively reduce the amount of bottles and cans we see on the ground that are ruining our countryside.’
The Minister built on that by saying ‘there are 40 countries across the world that are running these schemes, once the scheme is running in full we expect 4,000,000 bottles a day to be returned.’
A central talking point for Ó Ceallaigh and Minister Smyth was the rollout of broadband in Leitrim, acknowledging the critical role of digital connectivity in rural development. They exchanged views on addressing challenges and opportunities in broadband infrastructure to ensure equitable access to digital services for all.
Minister Smyth informed Ó Ceallaigh that National Broadband Ireland is currently ahead of schedule with national rollout.
Expressing his appreciation for the opportunity to engage directly with Minister Ossian Smyth, Ó Ceallaigh underscored the Green Party's commitment to advocating for sustainable policies that prioritise environmental protection and address the socio-economic needs of rural communities.
By actively participating in discussions at the highest levels of government, Ó Ceallaigh demonstrates his dedication to effecting positive change and championing the interests of Leitrim and its surrounding areas.