Local Election Candidates Go Head-To-Head In Final Shannon Debate

The final debate for candidates in the Shannon Municipal District has centred around housing, Shannon Town and the Airport and the South East as the forgotten area of the county.

Sitting councillors – Cathal Crowe of Fianna Fail, Fine Gael’s John Crowe, Independents PJ Ryan and Michael Begley were joined by Social Democrat hopeful Betty Walsh.

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The five remaining candidates in the Shannon Municipal district were all in agreement when it came to need for further investment in their area from the local authority.

But there were mixed views on whether it’s the forgotten part of the county – Sixmilebridge Independent Councillor PJ Ryan says that’s how the residents feel.

Fianna Fáil Councillor Cathal Crowe says there’s a need for a council operated depot to be developed to provide local services.

And he insists that a lot of work has been done to secure more community services in that part of the county.

Independent Councillor Michael Begley, who is an outgoing Councillor from the Killaloe Area, is now moving to the Shannon area as a result of a re-alignment of the Municipal Districts.

Springfield in his native Clonlara has long waited for flood relief measures and Councillor Begley says construction will begin by the end of the year.

When it comes to the greater district, there was agreement that more backing is needed from the Government to secure increased flights for Shannon Airport, and investment in Shannon Town.

Fine Gael Councillor John Crowe thinks a streetscape for the town can become a reality.

On housing, calls were made for more support from central government.

Clare County Council met their targets for last year but Social Democrat Betty Walsh doesn’t believe its good enough for those in need of housing.