Two new councillors confirmed for Fingal

Two new councillors have been co-opted to Fingal County Council to help fill vacancies created in the Castleknock and Rush-Lusk Local Electoral Areas.

Solidarity nominated Cllr Helen Redwood following last year’s General Election that saw Deputy Ruth Coppinger move to Dáil Éireann in the Castleknock constituency. Cllr John Burtchaell supported her nomination.

Accepting the role, Cllr Redwood said that having lived in Ireland for over 25 years she has been active on national and local issues, including those around water charges, the Campaign Against Domestic Violence, marriage equality and housing. Going further, she said that as we live in uncertain and unpredictable times that it was vital that communities come together to tackle the many issues facing society rather than being divisive.

Labour nominated Cllr Mark Boland to fill the new vacancy created by the departure of Kevin Humphries. He will represent the Rush-Lusk area. Endorsed by Cllr Brendan Ryan, Cllr Boland said it was a huge honour and privilege to accept a role as local councillor.

Saying that he was immensely proud to call Fingal home, Cllr Boland said that having worked within the Irish media industry for a number of decades that he has been taught the value of collaboration, creativity, perseverance, and dedication. Alongside his professional career, he said that he has been deeply involved in the community, whether that is playing, coaching, or leading local football and soccer clubs or serving on the various community committees. Becoming a Councillor in the region, he said, would allow him to help amplify the voices of the local people and help build a thriving and inclusive community.