Bishopstown local selected as new Labour councillor

Ciara O’Connor has been selected as Labour’s new Cork city councillor for the South-West ward following the vacancy left when Laura Harmon was recently elected to the Seanad.

The selection took place in Highfield Rugby Club in Bishopstown, and she will be formally appointed at the March 10 meeting of Cork city council. A new Fine Gael councillor will also be appointed to replace councillor Garret Kelleher, who was also elected to the Seanad.

Ms O’Connor, who lives in Bishopstown, is an advocate for community service and social justice, shaped by a politically engaged upbringing, and campaigned in the Marriage Equality referendum and the Repeal the Eighth campaign.

Her activism began at Cork Institute of Technology, now Munster Technological University, where they served as Vice President for Welfare of the Students' Union for 2 years, leading the development of mental health initiatives in the college Professionally, she has worked in the early years sector, advocating for better pay and conditions for childcare workers and greater access to affordable early childhood education.

Ms O’ Connor said: “I understand the struggles of young people today, having lived with my grandmother due to the housing crisis. We need affordable housing solutions, better healthcare access, and support for our aging population.

“I am committed to amplifying the voices of all constituents, ensuring that Cork’s diverse communities are represented and valued. What makes Cork truly special is its people, and I am dedicated to serving every member of our vibrant community.” 

She added: “In my experience working in the Early Years sector, I have seen firsthand the critical importance of investing in our youngest citizens. Access to quality early education is not just a privilege; it is a fundamental right that lays the foundation for lifelong learning and development.

“Unfortunately, the sector faces numerous challenges, including inadequate funding, high staff turnover, and a lack of resources. We must prioritise support for early years education to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive.

“This means advocating for better pay and conditions for childcare workers, increasing investment in early years programmes, and expanding access to affordable childcare for families. By doing so, we empower our children, support parents, and strengthen our communities. Investing in early years is an investment in our future.” 

Senator Laura Harmon added: “I am thrilled that Ciara O’Connor will be our new Labour councillor for the south west ward. I know Ciara from our student politics days and she brings a wealth of community and campaigning experience to the role of Councillor.

“I will be working closely with Ciara and councillor Peter Horgan in Cork south east to deliver the highest standard of public representation to the people.

“It’s wonderful that Labour has gone from one councillor (John Maher) to now three councillors, a TD (Eoghan Kenny) and a Senator in just 8 months - making Labour the fastest growing Party in Cork city.”