James Murray (Fianna Fáil), Athlone - Roscommon

We sent a questionnaire to all 10 candidates running in the Athlone Electoral Area in the forthcoming Roscommon County Council election. The responses are published in print in this week's Westmeath Independent.

ADDRESS: Scrine, Athleague.

PARTY: Fianna Fáil

SPECIAL AREAS OF INTEREST:

Farming: As a young farmer I am all too aware of the issues facing this community. Community: Support and develop local community groups and schools.

Transport and Communication Infrastructure: Supporting the continuous improvement of this infrastructure in our area.

Housing: Helping locals to obtain planning permission in their area and working to deliver on Fianna Fáil’s Housing for All policy.

WHY ARE YOU RUNNING IN THIS ELECTION?

I have always had an interest in politics. My late father, Anthony, was a county councillor from 1985 to 1991, so it was a big part of our house growing up.

Ultimately I want to help to make South Roscommon an attractive place to live and work, now and in the future.

WHAT ARE THE TWO BIGGEST ISSUES IN YOUR AREA?

The standard of many of the local and regional roads in this area needs to be improved.

Planning permission is also a big issue in this area. I strongly believe that a person who wishes to live in the area where they grew up should have an opportunity to do so and this must be reflected in the planning system.

WHO DO YOU MOST ADMIRE AND WHY?

I admire Barry Cowen. He is a hardworking, common-sense politician and he stands up for the real issues of the country.

TELL US SOMETHING PEOPLE DON'T KNOW ABOUT YOU: I have an All Ireland medal.