Longford Local Elections 2024: More mental health resources needed

Well known community volunteer James Quinn is running as an Independent candidate in the Longford Municipal District.

James hails from Prucklish and his work with the Newtownforbes Cardiac First Responders is well known in the locality. He started out in this role through the Longford Volunteer Centre.

Putting your name on that ballot paper is not for the faint hearted.

There are commitments of time and resources to consider, not to mention the responsibilities if elected.

The decision to go before the electorate is something James doesn't take lightly.

He says, “I decided to throw my name into the ring this year as I want to highlight a number of issues that are of concern to me and my community.

“I am particularly concerned with the way the mental health service is at the moment. More resources are needed. There is an over reliance on the work of volunteers, like Pieta House, I hope that as a councillor I would be able to address that.”

James says he will offer his support to local groups, like the TidyTowns.

“There are a number of local issues on the ground that I would hope to deliver on. I want to give a voice to young people. I feel there's an under representation of young people on the council and I would like to address that.”