Catrina O'Donohoe (Irish Freedom Party), Athlone

We sent a questionnaire to all 11 candidates running in the Athlone Electoral Area in the forthcoming Westmeath County Council election. The responses were published in print in the current edition of the Westmeath Independent.

NAME: Catrina O'Donohoe

ADDRESS: Castlequarter, Coosan, Athlone.

PARTY: Irish Freedom Party

SPECIAL AREAS OF INTEREST:

Care of the Elderly: More supports are needed for nursing homes, carers and staff. Twenty-four nursing homes closed over 18 months nationwide. I feel there should be additional supports and more focus on places for persons with additional needs. Housing: Fairness and transparency are needed when it comes to housing. Tourism and Commerce: We need to ensure that businesses feel reassured that Athlone is a good town to establish and/or grow in. We need to make sure Athlone is an attractive prospect for tourists, and this in turn will support local businesses.

WHY ARE YOU RUNNING IN THIS ELECTION?

I want to be a voice of common sense for the people of Athlone. I felt that there was more needed to be done to protect women after the terrible murder in Tullamore in 2022. Ireland is not as safe as it used to be. The government spent €23 million on the referendum in March, which turned out to be an unnecessary spend as it was largely rejected by the people. That money could have been put to better use.

WHAT ARE THE TWO BIGGEST ISSUES IN YOUR AREA?

1: Immigration and the impact on housing and local services. 2: Too many businesses closing down in Athlone.

WHO DO YOU MOST ADMIRE AND WHY?

My father, Michael Donohoe, because of his enthusiasm and hard-working attitude.

TELL US SOMETHING PEOPLE DON'T KNOW ABOUT YOU:

My favorite Irish phrase is, 'Is fearr Gaeilge briste ná Béarla cliste'.