Gould chosen as Sinn Féin by-election candidate

SINN Féin city councillor Thomas Gould will contest the upcoming by-election in the north central ward.

He will now join Fine Gael Senator Colm Burke, the Green Party’s Oliver Moran, Fianna Fáil’s Padraig O'Sullivan and Fiona Ryan of the Solidarity Party in trying to gain the seat vacated by Fianna Fáil’s Billy Kelleher.

Mr Gould was selected ahead of party colleague Mandy O’Leary Hegarty at Sinn Féin’s selection convention this week.

He said his campaign will revolve around four issues: Affordable housing, accessible healthcare, free education, and Irish unity. 

“Communities right across the Northside feel extremely let down by Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil. They aren’t feeling the full benefits of the recovery while the parties of government have not at all dealt with the issues of housing and health, "said Mr Gould.

“People are finding it tough to afford the roof over their heads. The worry of being evicted by landlords is very real.

“I also talk to people are worried about getting sick because they are afraid of being left on a treatment waiting list for months or on a trolley in a hospital corridor. We must also address the lack of mental health services.

“In Cork north central there is a feeling of being left behind by the recovery and they want solutions.

“Hardworking families want a break. They need to see their wages go further. Not hoovered up extortionate rents, insurance premiums, and childcare fees.

“Sinn Féin will launch our alternative budget on Tuesday which outline a menu of measures for giving people a break immediately,” he added.