New city councillor announced
Sinn Féin has announced its new Cork City Councillor for the South West Ward following the decision by Eolan Ryng to step down earlier this month.
The vacant spot will be filled by Orla O'Leary, 29, a UCC graduate who works in the public sector and has been a political activist since her teens.
Cllr O’Leary lives in Leesdale on the Model Farm Road with her husband and baby daughter. She holds an honours degree in Government and a master’s in public policy.
Following her selection by the party, Cllr O'Leary said she is determined to be a strong voice for workers, families, and communities on Cork City Council.
"It's an honour to have the opportunity to represent people in the community where I live, the community in which my baby daughter will grow up,” said Cllr O’Leary.
“I'm determined to hit the ground running and to make a real difference. I know the importance of delivering for people and making positive change in our community.”
As a young mother, Ms O’Leary says she is very aware of the challenges faced by workers and families in Ireland today.
She said: “The soaring cost of living is having a big impact right across the board and it's compounding the housing crisis. Too many people struggle to put a secure, affordable roof over their heads.”
To address this, Cllr O’Leary said there needs to be a “major ramping up” in the delivery of affordable homes to buy and rent in Cork city.
“I believe Cork City Council can and must bring the urgency and pace that's necessary to fix the problem and give young families their chance at a better life and a good future,” said the councillor.
As she steps into her new role, Leeside’s newest councillor says the very best thing about Cork city is the strength of its communities, that Cork people genuinely look out for one another and want the best for each other.
“That spirit is thriving in the neighbourhoods like Bishopstown, Ballincollig, Togher, Glasheen, and right across the South West Ward,” she said.
“You see it every day in the enthusiasm of local community, voluntary and sporting organisations in the area that are going from strength to strength. We should always respect, nurture, and enhance this powerful community spirit.”
However, Cllr O’Leary said it is unfortunate that communities too frequently feel they aren't listened to, especially when it comes to significant development projects.
“We need to see better consultation with local communities so that residents are included to have their say and shape the decisions that affect their lives,” she said.
Looking to the challenges that lie ahead in her new role, Cllr O’Leary says she has a strong work ethic and is well able to stand her ground and fight her corner on important issues.
“You have to put in a serious shift when given the responsibility of representing citizens in Cork city,” said the councillor.
“I believe in standing up for people, listening to differing views and perspectives, but importantly, I know how to stand my ground on the issues that matter to workers and families.
“That is the approach I'll take into City Hall. Delivery, getting the job done, that’s the Sinn Féin way. It's what motivates me because it's what people desperately need, and it's what they expect from those who represent them. I won't let them down.”