Independent Ireland leader Michael Collins and MEP Ciaran Mullooly in Longford today
Independent Ireland leader Michael Collins will join Longford MEP Ciaran Mullooly and focus on ‘issues that matter most to local families, businesses and communities’.
Independent Ireland Leader Michael Collins TD will visit Longford today as part of a nationwide tour to meet the party's councillors and hear directly about the challenges facing communities across Ireland.
During his visit, today Tuesday) Deputy Collins will join Longford MEP Ciaran Mullooly, where discussions will focus on the issues that matter most to local families, businesses and communities.
Speaking ahead of the visit, Mr Collins said, "This tour is about listening. Our councillors are on the front line every day, dealing with the real issues affecting people in their communities.
"I want to hear directly from them and from the people they represent so that Independent Ireland continues to bring practical, common-sense solutions to the Dáil."
Deputy Collins said these issues reflect a wider failure by Government to properly plan for growing communities.
"People deserve a Government that plans ahead rather than constantly reacting to crises that were entirely foreseeable. Whether it is school places, school transport, housing or the rising cost of living, families are being let down time and again."
During his visit, Deputy Collins will also meet residents and local organisations to discuss a range of issues affecting County Longford and the wider region.
The proposed itinerary includes visits to landmark projects in the county town.
* A 9.15am visit to Connolly Barracks (vacant Army Barracks) in Longford town, a THRIVE regeneration project.
* A 10am visit to the EDI Centre supporting the Longford community with a community cafe, job search assistance, recycling project Revamp.
* A 10.30am visit to a LEADER project followed by a meeting with Eveyln Rooney (niece of one of the passengers killed in the St Kevin air accident in 1952) at 11.20am.
Deputy Collins concluded, "I am looking forward to meeting the people of Longford and the surrounding areas, listening to their concerns and working alongside our local representatives to ensure their voices are heard."