GE 24 meet the candidates: Michael Carrigy (Fine Gael)
Meet the candidates GE 24
I am a proud native of Ballinalee, County Longford, and have dedicated my life to public service as a community representative, Senator, and advocate for rural Ireland. I have worked tirelessly to support local families, improve infrastructure, promote inclusivity, and champion small businesses. I believe in the power of strong communities and am committed to delivering results for the people of Longford-Westmeath.
When it comes to housing, why should the Irish people vote your party back into power when homelessness is at a record level in this country?
Fine Gael understands the urgency of addressing the housing crisis, including record levels of homelessness. While there is more work to do, our party has taken concrete steps, such as increasing housing construction, introducing affordable purchase and rental schemes, and addressing homelessness through targeted supports. If re-elected, we will continue to accelerate the building of social, affordable, and private homes, while ensuring wraparound services for those in need.
How do you intend to address the economic concerns that many people face due to the rising costs of groceries, insurance etc?
The rising cost of living is a major challenge for many families. We must focus on measures to ease financial pressure, such as reducing taxes for low- and middle-income earners, introducing targeted cost-of-living supports, and tackling the drivers of inflation, including insurance costs. Ensuring affordable childcare, enhancing energy efficiency in homes, and promoting competition in key sectors will be priorities in easing household expenses.
If you were marking the performance of the current government out of 10, what would you give it?
If I were to mark the current government’s performance, I would give it a 7 out of 10. Progress has been made in areas such as job creation, infrastructure, and social supports, but challenges in housing, healthcare, and cost-of-living pressures remain. More can be done, and we must continue to listen to and address the needs of our communities.
What one issue would be your top priority if you are elected to the Dáil?
If elected to the Dáil, my top priorities would be giving every child the opportunity to achieve their potential, addressing rural regeneration and economic development by investing in local infrastructure, and community facilities, we can ensure rural areas thrive and attract families, businesses, and investment. This focus will enhance quality of life, create jobs, and foster sustainable growth in towns and villages.