Cavan Belturbet MD Candidate: Niamh Brady (FG)

The married mum of two’s family has a long history of public service and local politics. Her late grandfather, Andy O’Brien, was a Fine Gael County Councillor and Senator for 44 years. Her father, Terry Argue, is a former Cavan Town Councillor, and her mother, Madeleine, recently retired after 25 years of service on Cavan County Council.

How do you unwind?

As a mother to two young children finding time to unwind is difficult. But I like to spend as much time as possible with my children, and involve myself with their activities.

Myself and my husband Cathal like to socialise with friends and family, and so far the best craic we’ve had this year was when Arva won the Junior All-Ireland.

Why should people vote for you?

As a first time candidate that’s a very relevant question. I think I have a very positive can do attitude, and I’m anxious to continue the good work my mother Madeleine has been doing the past 25 years. I’m very encouraged by the positive response I’ve been receiving, particularly those of my own age group, delighted to see another woman entering the race.

What will you do to address housing supply?

I believe elected representatives shouldn’t be voting against housing developments in the current crisis. Since the last election I’m delighted to see new housing come on stream in previously unfinished estates, and these have been finished to a very high standard. In the most part, most of the works have been completed by private developers, so this needs to be encouraged. There are also a number of other local authority and private developments coming on stream now at various stages.

Has Ireland taken in enough refugees?

There is a huge number of non-Irish nationals working in industry across Irish society, in hospitals, nursing homes, hospitality, construction, retail and factories. This is the reality of life in 2024. The people in tents is a different story and this needs to be dealt with at top government level, in the UK, and Europe.

What is your main campaigning issues?

What I’m hearing on the doorsteps. The children and elderly are finding it difficult to access medical services. Road congestion in many areas in Cavan Town. Amenities in estates, a lack of play areas, the need for speed ramps, and the long waiting list for social housing in the county.

Should the biodiversity/ climate crises be at the very top of the council agenda?

Its certainly should be on the agenda. Climate change is a real issue, with terrible floods in some parts of the world, heat waves, and wildfires in other parts causing serious destruction. Ireland is a small country and it is difficult to see how we can be major contributors to the problem, and I believe the vast majority of Irish people are contentious and do do their bit for the environment.

Who in a political sphere has influenced you the most?

There’s been a few. My grandfather Andy O’Brien, dad Terry, and Senator Joe O’Reilly, but the most influential has been my mother Madeleine who has worked tirelessly for the people of Cavan for 25 years, and Minister Heather Humphreys who has done incredible work in terms of delivering funding for so many community projects.