LE Candidates Q&A: Cllr Vinny McCormack (FF)

Moate LEA

1. Tell us a bit about yourself

I’m married to Deirdre (Egan) and have two great children, Cliodhna is 5 and was born on the day I got elected in 2019. Oisin turned 3 in January.

I work as PA for Deputy Robert Troy as well as being a county councillor for the Moate area.

If I get the chance on a Sunday morning, I’ll usually be found at Moate Golf Club. I’m a keen football man and lined out in various positions for Ballymore over the years.

2. Why did you get involved in politics?

I’ve always been a big volunteer and community activist. In many ways, it’s a natural step to seek election to local politics.

3. What are the big issues?

Safety for vulnerable road users in towns and villages is crucial. I’ve recently secured a commitment to provide an annual budget to put in place speed reduction and safety measures on a priority basis.

We need to protect the viability of our small towns and villages.

People in those areas have so much to offer Irish society, and rural depopulation threatens that – it threatens everyone, urban and rural.

4. Who is your role model?

In politics, I really admire Bernie Sanders and his passion for social justice. As a GAA man – hats off to Jim McGuinness.

5. What are your hobbies?

I’m crazy about sport in general. I’m a big GAA man and get to as many local games as I can. Most nights I’ll fall asleep reading a few pages of a book.

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

I’ve been a Newcastle United fan for years. It’s been a long road.