Cllr Noel Frawley is facing an election for the very first time today although he is currently a sitting councillor.
He was co-opted to the borough council 14 months ago after Joe Cody passed away.
“I was honoured when Joe Cody offered me his seat on the borough council" he said. "At first I was apprehensive, and wasn’t sure if I would want it, but Joe taught me all he knew and was a great friend to me.”
Having developed an interest in the political scene four years ago, Noel was a regular contributor to the local newspapers and radio with his views on the city. It was here he attracted the interest of the local politicians.
“Seamus Pattison contacted me after reading many of my pieces in the papers," said Noel. "He fuelled my knowledge and interest in local issues; he was an excellent mentor to me.
"Seamus introduced me to Joe Cody who, in turn, became a great friend of mine. Joe had the same interests as me, from the same books we enjoyed to the same policies."
Speaking of policies Noel said he is a local man working for the local person.
"I’m down here at grassroots level," he said. "I’m not talking about the national issues, I’m looking after the local issues. Whether it’s a pedestrian crossing, housing estates, roads or any issues affecting the local person, then I'm here for them."
While some of the politicians are used to canvassing, this was the first time for Noel.
“I was a little nervous at first," he admitted. "You’re concerned about the reaction, however by the third door I knocked on I felt very welcome. People embraced me and told me of their confidence in me."
As for the elections, Noel is hoping for a seat.
"Of course I would hope to be elected, I have done all I can," he said. "I would love to be re-elected for Joe, for the people who believe in me. I have taken out my loan in the credit union for the posters, I’m hoping they have made some difference and more importantly my views.
"If I’m elected I will keep Kilkenny the beautiful proud city it is," he added. "I’ll look after local people.”
