LE Candidates Q&A: Noeleen Fanning (Independent)

Kinnegad LEA

1. Tell us a bit about yourself

Born and raised in Coole, I worked in Dublin for a number of years before moving to Australia for seven years, and returning to Coole two years ago. While in Australia I volunteered on the committee of the Irish Support Bureau, who help Irish expats in Melbourne. Since coming home, I have experienced the challenges that come with relocating back to Ireland, the greatest being housing, but also the red tape imposed by bureaucracy, which makes things unnecessarily difficult.

2. Why did you get involved in politics?

I have never been involved in politics before, apart from being unhappy with the way the government has been running the country for years and controlling our lives more. Becoming increasingly frustrated with the government, their lack of interaction and their blatant disregard for the Irish people, I made the decision to run for local election, to be an alternative option for others tired of the same parties and the same story.

3. What do you see as the biggest issues in your area?

Lack of housing, immigration, access to medical treatment, speed reduction measures and poor lighting in the village, to name just a few.

4. Who is your role model?

I don’t have a single role model – to me, everyone standing up for their country, in the face of criticism and backlash, for no personal gain, and in some cases risking personal loss, are the role models.

5. What are your hobbies?

Walking through Tullynally Castle Gardens and Mullaghmeen Forest, singing with the local Comhaltas group, studying new topics.

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

There aren't enough words to say all I want to say, so follow me on Facebook to learn more!