LE Candidates Q&A: Liam McDaniel (FF)

Moate LEA

Tell us a bit about yourself

I am an experienced local councillor serving on Westmeath Co Co since 2016. I was honoured to be elected cathaoirleach of the council in June 2023.

I am a native of Kilbeggan, married to Anne and now living in Ballinagore.

I recently retired from my role as transport manager in Bord na Mona after 42 years of service.

I served as chairperson of Ballinagore GAA, secretary of Lilliput Gaels underage club and played football with Kilbeggan Shamrocks and Westmeath. I refereed GAA football for many years, including the 1998 senior football final.

I currently serve as a director of SWEETS in Kilbeggan and I have just completed a term on the board of management of Ballinagore National School.

Why did you get involved in politics?

I was co-opted by Fianna Fáil to Westmeath County council in 2016 and subsequently re-elected at the local elections in 2019. I always had an interest in helping and serving the local community and seeking improvements in local services.

What are the big issues?

I see the provision of housing, support for the elderly, one-off planning, dereliction, rural decline and support for the farming community as the major issues in the district.

Who is your role model?

My late mother May McDaniel, whose advice I always valued.

What are your hobbies?

GAA and all sport.

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

I am a distant cousin of well-known singer and former Boyzone star Ronan Keating.