Michael Malone, 21 Mar
The Social Democrats’ European Candidate for the Midlands-North-West
region, Rory Hearne, will host the first public meeting of his campaign in
Galway City next Wednesday at 7pm at Massimo Bar.
The discussion, ‘Your Vision, Our Vision – A Fairer Future’ will focus on
what a more inclusive and equitable society could look like.
As the author of two books which outline solutions to Ireland’s housing
crisis, Rory’s campaign will primarily be focused on housing and
homelessness.
He hopes to call for crucial changes and a commitment to fair housing at
the European Parliament.
Rory has a close connection to Galway, working actively with Galway-based
housing groups and NGOs in recent years as well as supporting the
Generation Locked Out and tenants facing eviction in Galway.
At the meeting next Wednesday, Rory will outline key figures on Galway’s
housing crisis and set out a vision for how it can be solved.
Speaking ahead of the public meeting, Rory said that Galway is a place
very close to his heart as his wife is from Galway and he spends a great
deal of time here with his in-laws.
“I also launched my book, ‘Gaffs’, here in Galway. From spending so much
time here and from working actively on the ground here for many years,
I’ve developed a keen understanding of the issues around housing and
public transport, in particular,” Rory said.
“I believe that Galway has so much potential and can really thrive as a
regional city if given proper investment.
“For me, the meeting next week is about putting our heads together and
discussing how we think these issues can be solved. Because there are
solutions and people know the solutions, they’ve just been worn down by
accepting the status quo for so long that they forget these solutions
exist and that change can happen.
“I hope that this meeting will re-energise people, give them back a bit of
hope and more importantly, encourage them to get out and use their vote.”
Joining Rory on the night for the discussion will be Social Democrats’
local election candidates, Eibhlín Seoighthe (Galway City Centre), Justine
Delaney-Heaslip (Galway City East) and Alan Curran (Galway City West).