LE Candidates Q&A: Frances Monahan (SF)

Kinnegad LEA

1. Tell us a bit about yourself

I am an energetic mother, spirited grandmother, a computer scientist and I have a long and strong background in community activism. Honesty and loyalty are in my DNA.

2. Why did you get involved in local politics?

I got involved in politics because I wanted to be responsible for making decisions that shape the future of our country.

I had previously been an armchair politician and had plenty of opinions, but never did anything about it.

I realised I could do a better job than the people who currently represented us, people whom I had previously voted for, so I signed up with Sinn Féin to begin my political career.

3. What are the big issues?

The big issues in Kinnegad include a lack of housing (affordable and social), commercial development, secondary school, childcare services, general services and the list could go on and on.

4. Who is your role model?

Countess Markievicz, because she was an Irish politician, revolutionary, nationalist, suffragist, socialist, and the first woman elected to the Westminster Parliament.

Her life and contributions were remarkable for the time: she left a legacy of courage, activism and trailblazing achievements, she never gave up, and neither will I.

5. What are your hobbies?

My hobbies include cycling, dancing, going to musical events, reading and all things tech – AI is my current obsession.

6: Tell use one thing about yourself that people will be surprised to read

I am an avid ska/reggae music fan. I travel to Dublin every Sunday to see The Bionic Rats play.

Their music is a mix of above and people from all age groups and backgrounds go to see the band and dance together. It’s an amazing experience. I saw The Specials in Trinity College two years ago.