John Naughten (Fine Gael), Athlone - Roscommon

We sent a questionnaire to all 10 candidates running in the Athlone Electoral Area in the forthcoming Roscommon County Council election. The responses are published in print in this week's Westmeath Independent.

NAME: John Naughten

ADDRESS: Ardkeenan, Drum, Athlone.

PARTY: Fine Gael

SPECIAL AREAS OF INTEREST:

All aspects of rural life.

WHY ARE YOU RUNNING IN THIS ELECTION?

I have worked closely with many local community and sporting organisations and the results of this work can be seen in the towns, villages and community facilities throughout South Roscommon. This is work that I want to continue if re-elected.

I also wish to continue my work to secure the ongoing investment needed to continue to attract companies to locate and invest in areas such as Monksland, creating significant local employment.

I have worked to ensure key local services and amenities are provided and to secure funding to transform our local towns and villages, work which I am anxious to continue on behalf of those communities.

WHAT ARE THE TWO BIGGEST ISSUES IN YOUR AREA?

Among the key issues are housing, including housing grants for the elderly and those with a disability, and village regeneration. Continued investment in housing is going to be vital into the future if we are to make provision for the expanding population of Monksland.

It is also vital that we continue to invest in infrastructure to regenerate our villages and to make them attractive places to live and raise a family.

WHO DO YOU MOST ADMIRE AND WHY?

The volunteers who give up their time to serve on local organisations, such as Tidy Towns and development groups, and many more, for no personal gain with the hope of improving their community.

TELL US SOMETHING PEOPLE DON'T KNOW ABOUT YOU:

I am a Liverpool FC fan.