MEET THE CANDIDATES: Leslie O'Hora (Green Party)
Carrick-on-Shannon LEA
Name: Leslie O’Hora
Address: Carrick-on-Shannon, Co Leitrim
Occupation: Local energy broker, director Good Energies Alliance - Ballinaglera (environmental and local community research NGO), director My Project.ie (mental health services)
Party: Green Party/Comhaontas Glas
Why have you decided to run in the local elections?
Having lived in the area for over thirty years and being a father, grandfather I believe it’s time to do the right thing both for the community and future generations. We in Carrick have a fantastic environment in which to live and enjoy family life. Our rivers, lakes, forest, walkways are steeped in nature. Leitrim is regarded as the most “natural county” in Ireland. It is my intention to help protect and foster this gift from the natural world. We should not forget about the importance of biodiversity and its essential role in our children’s future.
Why should people vote for you?
I have a wealth of experience in healthcare and other Life sciences both locally nationally and internationally.
In addition I worked with young Erasmus plus volunteers.
Therefore I can bring a lot of experience to the Council and local community in general.
What do you think is lacking in your area and what will you be campaigning for?
Activity infrastructure for young people and teens. I will be pushing for serious development of youth amenities.
Need to increase local healthcare services given our remote distance from acute hospitals. I will be looking for more frontline diagnostics, imaging, community based nurses and advanced nurse practitioner.
I wish to further develop Local Link buses and fast trains availability. Use my influence and contacts to attract additional decent jobs in healthcare, medical, IT software and engineering.
Leitrim has a great opportunity to further enhance its natural food activities. Already we produce local cheese, ice cream, milk, kefir, bread, and boxty.
I wish to further build organic food production in Leitrim along with the 150 organic family farms already in operation.