Martin Buckley (Non-Party), 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: Martin Buckley

ADDRESS: Derryneavey, Pullough, Tullamore.

PARTY: Non-Party.

SPECIAL AREAS OF INTEREST:

Advocating for individuals, families and communities to reach their potential and exceed their expectations.

WHY ARE YOU RUNNING IN THIS ELECTION?

After being involved in volunteering for eight years, I have experienced great times with the people and projects I have been involved in.

However, I feel West Offaly has not benefited enough from Government grants or supports and I want to make sure nobody, or no area, is left behind or forgotten.

WHAT ARE THE TWO BIGGEST ISSUES IN YOUR AREA?

Lack of promised Just Transition funding. And a lack of infrastructure and services across West Offaly.

WHO DO YOU MOST ADMIRE AND WHY?

John Hume. A humble man who was a key advocate of partnership, bringing all sides together to find resolutions to problems.

TELL US SOMETHING PEOPLE MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT YOU:

I grew up in Kilcormac and moved to Pullough when I was twelve. Also, I wasn't always grey!!