Green light for Catherine Joseph's Longford local election ambitions

Putting yourself forward for election is an act of courage. A robust sense of self is necessary before the candidates go around knocking on doors to ask for votes.

The region's local Green Party member, Catherine Joseph, has taken this challenge with relish. In the last two years Catherine has served in the role of Green Party community activist.

That groundwork is now rewarded as the party are supporting her to contest the Longford County Council local elections which take place in about one year.

“It's my own personal purpose,” Catherine told the Leader of her ambition to represent the people of Longford Municipal District, “As an immigrant from Africa, I am often asked why I don't focus on changing my own country first. These discussions can be challenging, but I believe in openness and honesty. I am a migrant in Ireland and specifically in Longford, and I have witnessed the incredible work that the people of Ireland do.”

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Longford has never elected a Green Party candidate, but Catherine feels the issues they champion have never been more important: “I looked around at different parties. The Green Party ticked all the boxes for me. They are leading the way with policies on social justice and the environment. I'm very concerned about the environment“.”

Tackling climate change is very important and we need to protect the environment for our children, and protect the environment for ourselves.”

She says the party values are particularly relevant: “I want to be a part of creating positive change, protecting the environment, and improving the lives of the community.”

The council hopeful has clear targets if elected: “We need much greater ambition when it comes to physical infrastructure, job creation, innovative businesses, investment, education, social amenities, accessibility, information, and healthcare facilities.

“Compared to other counties, like our neighbours Leitrim or Westmeath, we are lagging behind. I've been seeing a lot of changes happening, a lot of innovative progress is happening around, but I feel we need a more visionary approach to the way things are. We all see businesses closing, we need to foster a greater level of support for emerging businesses.”

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One of the challenges Catherine faces is voter recognition: “In the last two years I have worked with different community organisations, working with people. I've visited schools and different places to get my message across. I have linked up with members of the migrant community by founding the ethnic minority hub. I have a very good relationship with many of the migrant communities.”

Catherine is aware of the task ahead of her: “I'm not the most popular person, but I know that at least 1,000 people in Longford at this time already know my name and know the work that I've been doing. I'm going to be calling to people's doors as well during this campaign.”

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Local Government Elections must be held every five years. The local elections will be next year on Friday, June 7, 2024. Voters are advised to check they are on the register as early as possible.