Wife of Cork Sinn Féin TD among party's candidates for local elections

Sinn Féin has announced three candidates for the Cork City North West constituency in June’s Local Elections.

The party has announced that sitting Councillors Mick Nugent and Kenneth Collins will be joined by Michelle Gould, wife of Sinn Féin TD Thomas Gould.

Originally from Knocknaheeny, Michelle lives in Gurranabraher with her husband and their two daughters.

She works as a secondary school teacher, and is deeply involved in the Camogie community as a player and coach with St Vincent’s, UCC’s Intermediate Team and with Cork Camogie at various levels.

Speaking about her selection by Sinn Féin to contest the election, she said, “I’m absolutely delighted to have the opportunity to offer the people of Cork City North West such a strong team on Cork City Council.

“I’ve worked closely with Mick and Kenneth through various clubs, organisations and campaigns over the years. They’re very hard workers for the community and I’m excited to join them in being a voice for people across the North West.

“I see first-hand the impact that small changes can have on everyday lives – from traffic calming to housing maintenance repairs, people’s lives can improve with proper support from Council.

“I am proud to be a working mother of two teenage daughters. I see the huge talent and potential in our young people and women in our community.

“If elected, I will work tirelessly to ensure that funding and services are provided to nurture this and allow everybody to reach their potential. This local election is about making real change happen for communities.” 

 Councillor Kenneth Collins said, “Change starts at local level, so I’m very happy that Michelle Gould is contesting this election as part of a strong Sinn Féin team.

“I have been honoured to represent the community I am from over the last nine years. I am more determined than ever to champion them in Cork City Hall.

“Keeping the pressure on to speed up delivery of the North West Quarter Regeneration and increasing the availability of affordable and social homes are my main priorities.” 

Councillor Mick Nugent added, “Michelle is a fantastic addition to the Sinn Féin ticket. Knowing her well, she would be an excellent Councillor for the Northside.

“Sinn Féin provides a strong voice for communities, workers and families at City Hall. We have worked tirelessly across the Northside to make improvements and challenge the imbalance of funding for infrastructure.

“I will continue to campaign for investment in services, regeneration, fairness and the delivery of vital projects such as the Northern Distributor Road & the North West Regional Park while continuing to make housing a key priority.”