Clare Claffey (Social Democrats), Birr

We sent a questionnaire to all 15 candidates running in the Birr Electoral Area in the forthcoming Offaly County Council election. The responses were published in print in the Offaly Independent last Friday.

NAME: Clare Claffey

ADDRESS: 10 Cluain Rynagh, Banagher.

PARTY: Social Democrats

SPECIAL AREAS OF INTEREST: Housing, healthcare, disability, public realm and community facilities, and prevention of domestic and gender-based violence.

WHY ARE YOU RUNNING IN THIS ELECTION?

Having been a councillor on Offaly County Council representing the people of the Birr Municipal District for five years now, I have a huge commitment to public service and want to continue serving the people of this area through improving council services, ensuring local tourism and economic development, and delivering equality and accessibility for all people.

WHAT ARE THE TWO BIGGEST ISSUES IN YOUR AREA?

Affordable housing and accessible public services.

WHO DO YOU MOST ADMIRE AND WHY?

Social Democrats leader Holly Cairns. Since she was first elected a TD in West Cork just four years ago she has risen to be the leader of our party, and she continues to speak out on issues that matter to Irish people, including calling out the current Government for its failure to provide affordable homes and an acceptable standard of living for hard-pressed families.

TELL US SOMETHING PEOPLE MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I was born in England, but my Banagher blood goes back generations - my Nana Rose was a Moran of Queen Street, and she's super proud of her Offaly roots and of my success as a public representative.