Social Democrats select candidates for Kilkenny City and Piltown LEAs

The Social Democrats have announced the selection of  Martin O'Neill and David Kane to represent the party in the upcoming local elections in Kilkenny.

The selection convention took place on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at Butler House, Kilkenny.

Martin O'Neill, a history teacher at St Kieran's College, has been chosen to run for the Kilkenny City Local Election Area (LEA).

David Kane, currently serving as Deputy Librarian at SETU Waterford, will represent the party in the Piltown LEA.

Both candidates are entering the political arena for the first time, bringing with them a rich background of community service and professional experience in education and library services.

The event was attended by family, friends, and members of the Kilkenny branch of the Social Democrats. It was chaired by Councillor Mary Roche of Waterford City East LEA.

Both Mr O'Neill and Mr Kane are committed to the Social Democrats' vision of an inclusive, fair, and just Ireland. Their backgrounds in education and public service have equipped them with vital skills in governance, problem-solving, communication, and mediation, which they plan to utilize in addressing key issues such as housing, healthcare, and environmental sustainability in their respective LEAs.

The Social Democrats say they are dedicated to building a Republic of equals, emphasizing the importance of dignity and respect. The party advocates for a rights-based, inclusive society with a clear separation between Church and State. They champion high quality public services to promote equality and sustainability. 

The Carlow Kilkenny Social Democrats branch was founded in 2020. Vice-Chairperson William Sainsbury spoke of seeing people sleeping rough in Kilkenny for the first time in his life and how that was the catalyst for him to join the party and found the branch. He also criticised the two-tier health system that the current Government seems very attached to despite all parties agreeing to implement Sláinte Care.

As the local elections approach, the Social Democrats are confident that Martin O'Neill and David Kane will be exemplary candidates who will work tirelessly to represent the interests of their communities and contribute to building a better Ireland for all.