Kinnitty Fine Gael councillor launches local election campaign

FINE Gael Councillor John Clendennen launched his local election campaign at Giltraps Pub Kinnitty on Monday night. Clendennen has been a councillor since 2014, following in the footsteps of his father Percy, first elected in 1974.

The launch saw supporters from across the Birr Area and beyond, and guest of honour to launch the campaign was European Elections candidate, Nina Carbery.

Cllr Clendennen outlined his proven track record since elected a Councillor in working for Offaly, particularly working with individual queries and also the delivery of much needed projects such as the Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Trails and turning the sod on Birr Primary Care Centre.

“I am fully committed to the further improvement of local services and continuing to liaise closely with government ministers to maximize funding for the area, this has been evident even in recent days with major funding announcements for both Ferbane & Moneygall, and I’m proud to play a role in helping communities make beneficial change and progress whilst maintaining a common sense and measured approach,” stated Cllr Clendennen.

He also outlined the sizable level of funding specifically allocated to community and volunteer groups for small scale projects across the area. “There has never been as much funding available for investment in rural areas, and as a member of a government party I want to ensure such funding continues to be allocated to our area.”

Speaking at the launch, Nina Carberry acknowledged the work and energy that John dedicated to his role as a County Councillor and also his commitment to his home village through the development and expansion of Giltraps Pub & Glamping. “John has served you well as a local representative and I would encourage you all to Vote No. 1 Clendennen to ensure Offaly County Council has a strong voice of reason that is not afraid to make decisions, that may not be popular, but in the best interest of the long term success of Offaly.”

The event was also attended by Cllr Clendennen’s Fine Gael running mate in the area, Hughie Egan. Cllr Clendennen welcomed Hughie and gave his full commitment to working with him to ensure a successful outcome to the campaign. “I very much welcome Hughie here this evening, I will do everything I can to get myself re-elected to Offaly County Council but a truly successful day for Fine Gael on June 7th will be a return of two seats. Hughie has all that it takes including the name recognition having contested the 2019 elections and was only a handful of votes short. I have no doubt he can get elected this time and be a strong voice for the area and his locality and I wish him well,” stated Cllr Clendennen.

Cllr Clendennen is the sitting Cathoirleach of the Birr Municipal Area, there are six seats that will be contested at the local elections scheduled for June 7th.