Labour chooses a new candidate for Cavan-Belturbet area election

A recent Labour Party convention in Cootehill unanimously endorsed the candidature of Mary Croke to contest the Cavan-Belturbet area in the forthcoming Local Elections.
Ms Croke, who is originally from Kildare, but has lived and worked in Cavan for the past 14 years, was selected after veteran Cavan Town councillor, Des Cullen, decided against standing in the 2014 poll.
Although a long time member of The Labour Party, two recent campaigns have motivated her to become more actively involved in politics. She was a leading light in the failed campaign to save the Dun Ui Neill Barracks in Cavan Townn from closure. Being married to a member of the Defence Forces, she described it as “a devastating blow” to her family personally, as well as an economic setback for the community.
Ms Croke was also prominent in the successful campaign to have the Council take over the unfinished housing estate in which she currently resides.
Addressing the meeting following her nomination, Mary acknowledged the role which Des Cullen has played with such honesty and integrity in Cavan Town Council and welcomed his wholehearted support for her nomination.

Challenge
She acknowledged that the Cavan-Beltubet area, stretching as far as Blacklion, will present a huge challenge for the Labour Party in particular. However, she insists it is not “insurmountable”.
She is looking forward to the challenge and believes she has the vibrancy and energy to run a formidable successful campaign:
“This is something I’ve wanted to do all my life,” enthused Ms Croke. “Up to now I’ve been busy with the everyday business of working full time and caring for my children. My life experiences have made me ready for this step and my family is totally supportive of my decision. I’m looking forward to the campaign and meeting as many people as I can”.