LE Candidates Q&A: Julie McCourt (SF)

Mullingar LEA

1.Tell us a little about yourself

I was born and raised in Mullingar. When I was younger, I travelled and worked around Europe for almost 10 years. I have worked in retail, hospitality, childcare and healthcare, from which I have gained huge respect for those who work in those industries. For the last three years, I have worked as administrative assistant in deputy Sorca Clarke's office, which I find very rewarding.

2. Why did you get involved in politics?

I have always had an interest in politics. As a single, working class parent I've always had to advocate for myself and when given the opportunity to be the voice of the people in our community and for their voices to be heard, I jumped at that opportunity!

3. What are the big issues in your area?

Housing: homelessness, extortionate rents, lack of social housing; Traffic: congestion during peak times eg school drop off/pick up, rural transport; Education: lack of school places for children, school transport.

4. Who is your role model?

I've been lucky enough to have many great influences in my life. However, my mother stands out as my greatest role model. As a mother of six children who faced her own challenges, she never failed to show us love, compassion, respect and tolerance.

5. What are your hobbies?

Travelling our beautiful island and discovering our history and amazing scenery is my favourite thing to do.

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

I love white water rafting when I get the opportunity. One of the greatest experiences of my life was white water rafting on the Zambezi River while staying in Zimbabwe.