Meet the Sligo-Leitrim candidates: Paddy O'Rourke
Cathaoirleach of Leitrim County Council Paddy O'Rourke announced on November 7 that he was contesting in the General Election for Fianna Fáil.
I’m Paddy O’Rourke, married to Rita with three adult children, Fergus, Bronagh and Emmet. Farmer and small Agri business owner. First elected a councillor in 2004 and currently in my third term as Cathaoirleach.
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.
Childcare provision must be prioritised.
Our farmers are very concerned about the demands likely to be made upon them as we move forward with our national climate change prevention measures. These have to be addressed along with implementing a worthwhile farm retirement scheme and more support for incoming younger farmers.
Our tourism industry needs further development in order to reach its maximum potential and provide sustainable jobs into the future.
Our infrastructure, i.e. the Carrick by pass and improvements to the N4 simply have to happen and improve support for our local roads and local improvement schemes.
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
More and better resourced Gardai to protect our communities and reassure elderly they are safe.
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.
Vote no.1 O’Rourke.