Johnny Penrose (Labour), Moate

We sent a questionnaire to all 8 candidates running in the Moate Electoral Area in the forthcoming Westmeath County Council election. The responses were published in print in the Westmeath Independent last Wednesday.

NAME: Johnny Penrose

ADDRESS: Ballintue, Ballynacargy

PARTY: Labour Party

SPECIAL AREAS OF INTEREST:

I go swimming every morning at 6am in Bloomfield. I am an avid GAA fan and Chairman of Ballynacargy GAA for a number of years.

WHY ARE YOU RUNNING IN THIS ELECTION?

I have been a sitting county councillor for the past 22 years and I know there is more work that needs to be done such as affordable housing including planning permissions, provision of transport links, development of rural communities, and development of industry. This will make these communities hubs where people will come to live as they have employment close by. There are people in my constituency that need help and I have the skills, knowledge and capabilities to help them and ensure that they are cared for as I have done tirelessly for the past 22 years. I am always and will always be only a phone call away for those who need me.

WHAT ARE THE TWO BIGGEST ISSUES IN YOUR AREA?

The current lack of social and affordable housing is one of the biggest issues in my area, and the lack of Gardaí in rural areas is another major issue that people are expressing at the doors.

Closing local stations across the county means there is no presence or a lack of presence in a lot of our rural communities.

WHO DO YOU MOST ADMIRE AND WHY?

My grandmother was an inspiration to me and she instilled in me the old traditions of the Labour Party and the importance of representing and advocating for those people who are less well off and who often have nowhere to turn.

She was the pillar of my family and someone who practiced what she preached.