Speaking after her selection as a candidate for Aontú in the Castleisland / Corca Dhuibhne Municipal District for the June 2024 elections, Castleisland native Cáit Ní Ríordáin said she joined the party because she really admires its leader Peadar Toibín,TD for his decision to leave Sinn Féin on a matter of conscience.
“He then founded Aontú which is a republican party and stands for life, unity and economic justice for all.
Deputy Tóibín was willing to go against the grain and step outside of his comfort zone in setting up Aontú,” she said.
Single, Hard-working Mother
“I’m delighted to have been selected to contest the election for Aontú in Castleisland. As a single and hard-working mother I know the hardships associated with this time of year in terms of back-to-school costs,” Ms. Ní Ríordáin continued.
“The cost-of-living crisis is hurting a lot of people, particularly here in rural Ireland. Our young people are being forced to emigrate because of the housing crisis. New statistics show that 68 percent of people aged between 25 and 30 are still living at home with their parents.”
“In recent weeks we’ve seen the fire service going on strike due to inadequate pay and conditions.
Hospital Waiting Lists
“Our health system is on its knees. Hospital waiting lists and queues are out the door, nurses and staff are overworked and underpaid and our hospitals are not adequately staffed,” she continued.
“The farmers and fisheries have been left behind by both Ireland and Europe – in terms of fishing quotas, and the EU’s desire to import beef from Brazil instead of Irish beef.
“There are lots of people in our community suffering enormously at this time, and I would like the opportunity to represent them and make life easier for the people of Kerry,” Ms Ní Ríordáin concluded.
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