Fianna Fail have added a third candidate to contest the 2024 Local Elections in the Graiguecullen-Portarlington area.
Sitting Councillors Padraig Fleming and Paschal McEvoy were selected at a convention last year.
And now Joey Kennedy has announced that he will also run for the party.
At 19-years-old, he is currently the youngest candidate to be confirmed to stand in Laois.
Kennedy, who sat his Leaving Cert last June in Clongowes, owns furniture company Willow and Green along with his brother.
He said: “I am thrilled to announce my candidacy for the upcoming local elections for the Portarlington / Graiguecullen LEA representing Fianna Fail.
“I want to be a voice for all and I am passionate about making a difference in Portarlington and local areas.
“I will work my hardest for Portarlington and the surrounding areas and I will ensure that no one is left behind.
“I am a proud Laois man, but more importantly, I am a proud Portarlington man.
“Born and raised in Portarlington, and working in the town, I see the full potential that our great town and County has and I think we should take advantage of it.
“I think it’s time for our younger citizens of Laois to be heard. Better Mental health services and more of a focus for youth groups and projects are desperately needed.
“I am a 19 year old candidate with endless amounts of energy and I am ready to work for the people of our great area.
“I aim to bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to the forefront of local governance here in Laois.
“I believe that now, more than ever, it is vital to have representation that truly listens to the needs of the community and works tirelessly to address them.
“I am committed to being a voice for all residents, regardless of age or background, and to championing policies that will create a brighter future for our area.”
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