My Priorities for South Drogheda and East Meath
East Meath is one of the fastest-growing areas in the country, and with that growth comes increasing pressure on our services, amenities, and infrastructure. My focus as a Councillor is to ensure that investment, planning, and decision-making keep pace with the needs of our community. These are the priorities that guide my work on Meath County Council and shape the issues I raise on behalf of local residents.
Recreation & Community Facilities
A strong community needs places where people can come together, socialise, learn, and stay active. East Meath has a young and expanding population, and it is essential that our recreation and community facilities grow alongside it. I am committed to securing greater investment in playgrounds, sports amenities, and community spaces that serve families and children.
Supporting the work of local voluntary, sporting, and community groups is central to this. These groups play a vital role in strengthening local life and providing opportunities for young people. I will continue to advocate for funding, resources, and improved facilities so that they can develop, expand, and meet the needs of our community well into the future.
Roads Infrastructure & Public Transport
Improving our roads and transport network is one of the most pressing issues facing East Meath. Rapid population growth has put significant pressure on local roads, traffic management, and public transport options. My priority is to secure investment that makes our roads safer and more efficient for all users — motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists.
I continue to push for road upgrades, better traffic management plans, new pedestrian crossings, and safer junctions throughout the Laytown-Bettystown Municipal District. Improved public transport services are also essential. Reliable, frequent, and well-connected routes reduce commuting times, support students and older people, and enhance quality of life. I will keep working with all relevant
agencies to secure better bus services and stronger transport links for our area.
Education
As a Secondary School teacher, I understand the challenges facing parents, students, teachers, and principals in securing school places and accessing proper educational supports. East Meath urgently needs increased educational provision to match its population growth.
I am committed to continuing the campaign for a new secondary school for Duleek, expanded existing facilities, and improved transport options for students. Adequate classroom space, modern buildings, and appropriate resources are essential to giving young people every opportunity to succeed. Education is at the heart of a strong, forward-looking community, and I will ensure that it remains a top priority on the Council.
Public Infrastructure
Investment in public infrastructure shapes the day-to-day experience of every resident. Proper footpaths, bus shelters, pedestrian crossings, and public lighting are essential to safety, accessibility, and overall quality of life. I will continue to advocate for upgrades across East Meath to ensure that our towns and villages are safe, well-lit, and connected. These improvements support active travel, make public transport more usable, and create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all residents.
Housing
Every community needs access to secure, affordable, and appropriate housing. My focus is to ensure that Meath County Council provides sufficient homes for local people, including social and affordable housing that meets the needs of families, young people, and older residents. I also strongly support rural one-off housing applicants who wish to build in their own communities and remain close to family networks. Balanced, sustainable housing delivery is essential to protecting local communities while ensuring that future growth is well-planned and properly supported.
Crime
Community safety remains a major concern in East Meath. I continue to campaign for more Garda resources for our area, including increased visibility, stronger enforcement, and improved local engagement.
Residents should feel safe in their homes, on their roads, and in their neighbourhoods. I will keep pressing for the staffing and resources necessary to
reduce crime and support policing that is responsive to the needs of our community.
Local Jobs & Quality of Life
A thriving local economy strengthens every aspect of community life. I am committed to supporting local businesses, encouraging investment, and promoting new opportunities for people to work closer to home. Reducing long commuting times improves quality of life, strengthens families, and builds a more sustainable community.
The development of remote working hubs is an important part of this strategy. These hubs provide flexible, modern workspaces that meet the needs of families and professionals, while helping to keep economic activity within our towns and villages.
