By Dan Walsh at Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy
It was standing room only in Riverside Park last night (Wednesday) as more than 700 people gathered to support ten candidates from the Wexford Independent Alliance who will contest five districts in the Local Elections on June 7th.
Deputy Verona Murphy told the gathering that the new political movement, Wexford Independent Alliance are committed to making a change for the County of Wexford and the people who call Wexford home.
“We have unveiled a total of ten candidates who will contest the local elections on June 7th in each of the five districts, candidates who are prepared to listen and work hard to bring about change,” said Deputy Murphy, who added; “The Alliance will offer the people of Wexford a real alternative to the current party politics that is not working for our county. Party politics must be challenged at local level to ensure stability and prosperity for people alongside sustainability for communities throughout Co. Wexford.
The guest speaker was Senator Michael McDowell, SC, a former Minister for Justice who called for the return of local politics and power to the local authorities instead of being dictated from Dublin. The attendance included Galway’s Noel Greelish TD and Waterford’s Matt Shanahan TD. Former Wexford TD and broadcaster Ivan Yates was master of ceremonies.
MEET THE CANDIDATES
JIMMY FLEMING (Gorey). A businessman from Riverchapel and boss of Paddy Blues in Gorey. Between 2002 and 2012 he was elected to serve on Gorey Town Commissioners and represented both Sinn Féin and Fianna Fail on different occasions.
NICKY BOLAND (Gorey). Over 40 years in business and well-known in North Wexford, he has never had his name on a ballot paper before. Looking forward to the challenge and is hoping to get a large share of the ‘town vote’.
PADDY KAVANAGH (Kilmuckridge). A former member of Enniscorthy UDC and Enniscorthy Town Council and member of Wexford County Council he feels “a voice is needed for rural Ireland.” Chairman of Enniscorthy Dog Track and well-known in IFA circles.
CYRIL WHEELOCK (Enniscorthy). His name is synonymous with strawberries, served as Chairman of Enniscorthy Strawberry Fair Committee. He treats lame cows. In recent years he set up The Village at Wheelock’s at Finchogue and is interested in bringing more tourism to the area.
MAJELLA WALL (Enniscorthy). Six years in business and runs the J’Dore boutique on Rafter Street. Involved with the Capital Development at Bellefield. Would like to see the rejuvenation of Enniscorthy town centre and bring in more business.
RAYMOND SHANNON (Wexford). From George’s Street, Wexford town, second youngest in a family of 10, and single Dad of four, and a pioneer of mental health locally. Believes that Wexford needs 24/7 mental health services. If elected, he hopes to make Wexford a better place for all.
MICHELLE O’NEILL (Wexford). A mother, an artist and an international World Cup and FIFA referee her mottos is “people before political parties.” She believes that “to see the change you have to be that change.” Very well-known as a sporting icon and community activist.
CLLR PAT BARDEN (New Ross). From Adamstown and five years a member of Wexford County Council, well-known for his hurling and football skills. Would like to be Chairman of Wexford County Council one day! Keen on developments in Adamstown village and would like to see the iconic Adamstown Hall signed over.
MARTY MURPHY (New Ross). A dairy farmer and Chairman of the Co. Wexford Milk Producers from the Ballyhack/Campile area ofsouth-west Wexford. Promises to work for farming, fishing and tourism. Has a happy motto; “Forget the Party. Vote for Marty.”
JACK BARDEN (Rosslare). Brother of Cllr Pat Barden and affectionately described as “one of life’s characters and a skilled salesman.” Promises to deliver for the people mainly in the areas of Bannow, Ballymitty and Taghmon. He feels that Taghmon is a forgotten place that has the potential to be a flourishing place.
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