Fianna Fáil city councillor John Connolly launched his campaign for national election at an event in Galway’s Harbour Hotel on Monday.
Standing in the Galway West constituency, Connolly promised to focus on addressing pressing issues facing Galway city and county: the housing crisis, health services, education, and transport infrastructure.
Speaking at the event, Fianna Fáil’s retiring Galway TD, Eamon O’Cuiv, praised Connolly’s dedication, experience and work ethic: “After honesty and integrity, hard work is the next big thing you need in political life. It’s slow and hard to make changes—but those with a proven doggedness get the work done,” he said.
Connolly, a teacher, gave an impassioned speech to a packed room, highlighting the growing housing crisis in Galway city, especially for children. “Galway has more children living in temporary accommodation than any other city outside Dublin. Lack of shelter is only part of the story - these children are missing out on the stable upbringing they deserve.”
Connolly also underscored his commitment to securing better healthcare services for Galway, including the long-awaited new A&E department. He spoke about the need for expanded mental health and ADHD services, particularly for young people. He reiterated his call for a step-down facility to support those departing the Acute Mental Health Services in the city.
On education, Connolly reiterated his call for increased resources to support the inclusion of children with special needs within the mainstream school system. “Every child deserves opportunity to thrive in an environment that caters to their individual needs,” he said.
A long-time advocate for improved public transport, Connolly reiterated the delay in the publication of the Galway Transportation Strategy. “Minister Eamon Ryan has yet to release the strategy because he opposes the Galway Ring Road, despite it being an integral part of the existing transport strategy.” Connolly argued that the ring road is essential for the city’s development and for alleviating traffic issues. Eamon O’Cuiv echoed this view, adding: “Those who support the bypass also support public transport.”
Connolly emphasised that his approach to leadership goes beyond addressing immediate concerns. He said: “When I meet constituents on the canvass, I want to not only address their problems but also look at the root of those problems and how we can solve them through effective policy changes".
