Garrett Kelly (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: Garrett Kelly

ADDRESS: Arraghmore, Carrig, Birr.

PARTY: Non-Party.

SPECIAL AREAS OF INTEREST:

Disability, the Arts, and Youth, Community and Mental Health.

WHY ARE YOU RUNNING IN THIS ELECTION?

To implement real, positive change that will make a significant difference to people's lives by advocating for the rights of people with disabilities, their families and the youth, and to champion better mental health services for all.

I would also like to see better supports implemented for the Arts sector.

WHAT ARE THE TWO BIGGEST ISSUES IN YOUR AREA?

Wheelchair access to buildings and uneven, unsafe footpaths.

WHO DO YOU MOST ADMIRE AND WHY?

My mother, Bernie, who, in the early noughties was a member of Partners In Policymaking.

The first of its kind in Ireland, this forum empowered people with disabilities and their families to enact real change in relation to policy around education, employment, civil rights, and community living.

This is something I hope to emulate as an elected member of Offaly County Council come June 7 and beyond.

TELL US SOMETHING PEOPLE MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT YOU:

Before developing the neurological autoimmune condition Myasthenia Gravis, I was on track to represent Ireland in the Paralympics.