One of the newest political parties in Ireland will have a candidate in Laois in the Local Elections, which are set to take place on June 7.
Martha Ryan, who lives in Portlaoise, has declared that she will run as an Aontú candidate in the Portlaoise Municipal District.
Ms Ryan is a mental health nurse with over 20 years experience in the field, as well as being a qualified psychotherapist.
“I’ve always had an interest in current affairs,” Ms Ryan told LaoisToday.
“However, last year I decided to join Aontú because I became very unhappy with how our Government has run this country and the impact that it’s had on our community.”
Ms Ryan called Aontú “the fastest growing political party” in Ireland, and said she joined Aontú because “it’s a party that has values.”
Ms Ryan says she sees Aontú as “the only opposition party,” insisting “Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and Sinn Féin are all sending out the same message.”
“This is a party of heart and soul, and that’s why I chose Aontú.”
Aontú, which was formed as recently as 2019, were the only political party to campaign for a ‘No‘ vote in the recent “care” Referendum.
The new candidate has highlighted three areas that she will be focused on should she be elected in June:
“The cost of living crisis, because it’s hurting every income level, every professional background,” Ms Ryan said.
“I’m looking for appropriate and fit-for-purpose health services. Especially being a mental health nurse, that’s something that’s very important to me.
“And community spirit in relation to community development, such as a fit-for-purpose, state-of-the-art sports arena.”
Ms Ryan says she will be placing a massive emphasis on improving the infrastructure and amenities needed for health services in Portlaoise.
She expressed concern that the rising population in the town is not being matched by rising medical infrastructure, such as hospital beds.
The election hopeful says she has been out canvassing since November; an experience she described as “interesting,” “heartwarming,” and “sad.”
“People feel almost fearful to speak,” Ms Ryan said.
“Some people feel there’s a kind of hopelessness for them.
“I’ve met with a lot of parents who have children with additional needs, and there’s a feeling of helplessness in relation to the lack of services and the difficulties that they have to go through to reach those services.
“But it’s also been heartwarming, being able to talk to people and giving them time to have their voice heard.”
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