This by-election is about what kind of future people want for Galway - and who will actually stand up for ordinary workers, families and communities when the votes are counted, according to Sinn Fein Galway West candidate Mark Lohan.
“Across Galway West, people are under enormous pressure. The cost of living continues to rise, housing has become unaffordable, young people are being locked out of their own communities, and families are working harder than ever just to stay afloat.
After years of Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael in government, many people feel they are being ignored while life becomes harder and more expensive.
Mark Lohan understands those pressures because he comes from the same communities facing them every day.
Mark has always believed in standing up for ordinary people and ensuring working families get a fair break – whether that be when he was a labourer in Boston, where he first became active in the trade union movement, or here in Galway where he has represented workers in many sectors.
As a former City Councillor, Mark built a reputation as someone accessible, hardworking and prepared to fight for local communities - whether on housing, healthcare, infrastructure, the cost of living or protecting rural and coastal areas.
This election is also about pressure. The government will not change direction unless people force it to.
Electing another Fianna Fáil or Fine Gael TD will simply be taken as an endorsement of the failures that have driven the housing and cost-of-living crises. And Independent Ireland - as they have shown by voting to keep this government in office - will not put real pressure on the government when it matters most.
If you want stronger action on housing, the cost of living and public services, then this by-election is an opportunity to send a clear message.
Vote Mark Lohan Number 1.
