'Shop local, eat local and support local'

Entering politics for Cllr Sinead Flynn came with a desire to make a difference in her community, and to be a strong voice for local people and for women.

“For me that’s what politics is all about. It’s about the people and listening to those everyday issues that affect ordinary people,” she described.

As Chairperson of the Monaghan Women’s Assembly, she feels “strongly” about encouraging more women to become involved in politics and public life, and “making sure” their voices are heard at the decision-making table.

She wanted to “play” her part in making the Ballybay-Clones municipal district a “better” place to live, work and raise a family.

“I was very proud and very humbled to have been elected to Monaghan County Council, and I represent everybody as much as I can.”

The Sinn Fein councillor aims to “do everything” in her power “to help find solutions and bring about positive change in the area”.

Becoming Cathaoirlech of the MD in her second year was a huge honour for Cllr Flynn, her family and her local community in Smithborough. She also serves as vice chairperson of the Local Community Safety Partnership, which she feels “gives people a connection” to allow issues that affect them be raised.

The Smithborough woman is passionate about improving public transport in the area, and strives to see a Local Link service in every town and village throughout the MD. Currently *** is not served by the service.

In addition, she continues to push for improved road safety measures, and mentions “speed” as an issue in many areas.

“We need more traffic calming measures coming into our town and villages,” she said.

Cllr Flynn would also like to see more investment in services for young people, the elderly and for community groups across the area, which she described as “the backbone” of society.

She also highlighted the small business throughout the area, particularly in rural communities, which act as a “lifeline”.

“They are like the hub of the community.”

She urged people to shop locally to support towns and villages and the communities they serve.

“Every purchase made in a local business will help sustain job and not only strengthen the local economy, but also ensure that the local village continue to thrive.”

With several tourist attractions and “numerous” shops and cafes, Cllr Flynn said there is “so much to see and enjoy” in the towns and villages in the Ballybay-Clones municipal district.

“Shop local, eat local and support local,” she encouraged.

“Together we can all continue to build a vibrant, welcoming, and prosperous communities that we can all be proud of.”

Cllr Flynn also congratulated the McKenna brothers on their successes recently at the 3Arena, when they both did their county proud.