The Strife Of Brian

Brian Fogarty APR24

atest press release from Sinn Féin election candidate Brian Fogarty, issued last Friday but we’ve been busy as all feck…

Some people ask me why I’m running for election. The simple answer is that there is something within me that can’t be taught or trained: a passion for helping people.

From a young age, I have stood for equality and fairness, been a voice for those who can’t speak for themselves, fought against wrongdoing, and upheld what I believe to be right. I genuinely believe I bring something powerful and unique to the table as a candidate, something that can 100% help the people of Greystones and its local areas. I possess a dogged determination to get results for people, without seeking self-praise or gratitude.

Having spent years successfully fighting for and representing workers, I now turn my attention to my local community. My experience, expertise, and skills acquired as a trade union representative, trainer, and negotiator will hugely benefit our community. We need someone who can hit the ground running, who has their finger on the pulse, and who has the ability to competently challenge, mediate, and fight for our communities both individually and collectively.

A seasoned trade union representative, I have amassed a wealth of experience and accolades over the years:

⦿ National Executive Council of Mandate: Served with distinction for 6 years, contributing to national policy and strategy.

⦿ Chairperson of Mandate’s Wicklow Council: Held the leadership role for 7 years, driving local initiatives and member engagement.

Fogarty with Sinn Féin’s John Brady, Esther Kelly & Lou McDonald

⦿ Accreditation as a Trade Union Representative: Earned formal recognition for my expertise and commitment to union representation.

⦿ QQI Accredited Trainer: Qualified to evaluate, develop, and deliver training programs for activists and campaigners, enhancing skills and mobilizing efforts.

⦿ Leadership Diploma: Successfully completed advanced leadership training, strengthening my capacity to lead and inspire.

⦿ National Negotiator for SuperValu: Represented members in high-stakes negotiations, securing favorable outcomes and agreements.

⦿ Youth Representative: Acted as the voice for young members in both Mandate and the Irish Congress of Trade Unions, advocating on national and European stages.

⦿ I met Russell Crowe, and lived to share the selfie.

On a personal level, I am deeply rooted in this town. I am Greystones through and through. It’s my hometown.

I was born and raised here and still live in Kindlestown park and work Greystones too. As a member of the management team in SuperValu, I have worked with the public my whole life, something I love doing.

This position also allows me to give back to our community through donations and contributions to local sports clubs, schools, and a number of amazing charities.

I went to school in St. Laurence’s, St. Kevin’s, and St. David’s, and played football for Greystones United and rugby for St. David’s. I love all sport, especially football and rugby, and I’m an avid fan of the Irish team. I completed a FAI referee course and got my badge a couple of years ago to give something back to the community and to participate in a sport I love.

I understand the issues, particularly those young people face, such as being unable to afford to buy a home or pay skyrocketing rents even when working full time. I share your frustration with the lack of trains and unreliable bus service, and I, too, get annoyed by traffic congestion. I want to represent you and fight for improvements.

However, I need to be elected in the upcoming elections to do so. Other candidates promise the sun, moon, and stars just to get elected. My promise to you is that I will fight tooth and nail for all the issues I am mandated by you to address, big or small.

Sinn Féin, the party I represent, is the party of change. We have the strongest activists, like myself, on the ground and are best suited to bring about positive change. Currently, there is no Sinn Féin councillor elected in the Greystones Local Electoral Area (LEA). This has to change. We need fresh, strong, passionate voices representing you on our County Council.

On June 7th, you have the chance to make this happen. Grab this opportunity and vote for change. Vote for a better Greystones.

Vote for someone who will relentlessly fight for you. Vote for me.