LE Candidates Q&A: Cllr Denis Leonard (Labour)

Kinnegad LEA

1. Tell us a bit about yourself

I am a resident of Kinnegad, where I live with my wife Mary and two children. I’ve worked for 40 years as a teacher, guidance councillor and principal, 10 years as a councillor and over 45 years in community, environment and human rights bodies. I was a President’s Award leader and have been an underage GAA coach for over 25 years.

I have also served on the boards of Bord na Móna, Greenpeace, Northern Ireland Children’s Holiday Scheme, Trócaire, and worked with the Chernobyl Children’s Project, Amnesty, VOICE, and the Irish Wheelchair Association. Locally I have served on the Westmeath Transport SPC, LWETB for 15 years and as chair of Killucan Kinnegad Transport Lobby Group, Columba College Killucan, Kinnegad Action Group and Westmeath Heritage Forum.

2. Why did you get involved in politics?

To make a difference and bring honest engagement and real energy to local issues that affect us all.

3. What are the big issues?

Retaining and enhancing rural services like garda stations, post offices, housing, schools, tourist facilities and facilities for the elderly and youth. Fair deals for working people and supports for farmers. Affordable housing for all, community facilities like parks, libraries and playgrounds.

We need improved transport links, the reopening of Killucan rail station, and to work against inappropriately located waste and wind farm facilities in our communities.

4. Who is your role model?

Michael Davitt, who founded the Land League, as he fought for those who had no voice at the time.

5. What are your hobbies?

GAA and all sports, cycling, music, dancing, walking and reading,

6. Tell us one thing about yourself that people will be surprised to read

I played in Croke Park in a club final and spent 11 years in the US.