O’BRIEN TO CONTEST ELECTION

CLLR Paul O’Brien from Wicklow Town was officially selected as the Labour Party candidate for the general election at a selection convention held on Thursday.

Speaking at the convention, Cllr O’Brien promised that he would do his best to live up to the expectations set by the members and will do all he can to ensure that Jack O’Connor’s vision of a fairer society becomes a reality.

Earlier this year ex-SIPTU general secretary Mr O’Connor stepped down as a Labour general election candidate in Wicklow.

Following his selection, Cllr O’Brien said, ‘This is a great honour for me to follow in the footsteps of so many fine Labour representatives that served Wicklow with distinction since the foundation of the State.

‘I have to admit though I got a little choked up when thanking my family for their continued support as I am the first member of my family to hold elected office and to run for the Dáil.

‘My only regret is that my grandparents aren’t alive to witness one of their own running, as I know they would have been so proud. I know the county faces many challenges and if elected to the Dáil I will work tirelessly for all the people of County Wicklow.

‘I know first-hand what it is like to lose your job and to face the hardships and stigma that this brings, but I made the most of my situation and thanks to the Labour Party being in government at the time I was able to attend UCD, where I graduated with a bachelor of arts degree in 2016. I want to now use the opportunities that were afforded me to help others, as I know how difficult it can be to bounce back.’

O’Brien concluded by thanking his supporters, family and the people of Wicklow for their continued support and vowed that he will be ready for whenever an election is called.

The next General Election is due to take place next year, though no date has yet been set.