MEET THE CANDIDATES: Bernie Linnane (Labour Party)

Name: Bernie Linnane
Address: Dromahair, Co Leitrim
Occupation: Accountant
Party: Labour Party

Why have you decided to run in the local elections?
I have been involved in political activism, of one kind or another, for many years. I was involved in the national and local campaigns for marriage equality and abortion rights, and chaired the campaign to keep the National Maternity Hospital in public ownership. I feel I have more to give and want to contribute more to my beautiful local area of North Leitrim, where I live and work.

Why should people vote for you?
I have a proven record of standing up on important issues and I will never be afraid to speak out in the best interests of our communities. I am privileged to serve on the boards of the Sligo Rape Crisis Centre, Dromahair Community Playschool and the newly formed Ballintogher Community Childcare.
I believe that change is needed on Leitrim County Council, which has become all too stale, not least in the area of gender. As a passionate campaigner for equality, I know that insufficient representation of the voices of women means we cannot have a balanced perspective in our local government.
Voting for the same people will only produce the same results. It is time to challenge the status quo.

What do you think is lacking in your area and what will you be campaigning for?
My priorities are:
Tackling the scourges of vacancy and dereliction in this time of record homelessness;
Making sure unfinished estates are completed and taken in charge, so that people can access and enjoy their homes in safety and comfort;
Bringing life back into the centres of our beautiful towns and villages;
Promoting diversity and inclusion in Ireland’s loveliest county.