Unspoiled and undeveloped potential

Fine Gael TD for Sligo-Leitrim, Frank Feighan, believes that investment is key to realising the county’s untapped potential.

What are your most significant priorities as a TD for the Sligo-Leitrim constituency?

To assist the local authority and other agencies in continuing the investment programme for the county in the towns, and rural areas. This entails tourism, industry, broadband, and improved roads and leisure facilities.

What is unique about representing County Leitrim?

Leitrim may have the smallest population of any county in Ireland but it is unique in its unspoiled and undeveloped potential. The quality of life is excellent and it is a great place to live and raise a family.

What are the most pressing challenges currently facing your constituents?

I think the most pressing is affordable housing. We had a glut of housing post the boom Celtic Tiger years, but now there is a real shortage, with many developers not convinced to invest in new housing developments. I hope the extension of the Croí Cónaithe scheme to cities and rural areas will allow the many vacant houses to be developed into rentable homes for many.

What extent has the post-pandemic recovery delivered a socioeconomic dividend for County Leitrim?

Working from home is now part of life, with many availing of remote working hubs spread across the county. Many have adopted the hybrid model, choosing to remain in the county on days when previously they may have travelled. That is a fantastic dividend for the county.

How can County Leitrim best showcase its cultural heritage?

There are many festivals across the county, showcasing our music and literary heritage and attracting many visitors, this should continue to be the focus. Many areas across the county with connections to our cultural heritage should do more to adopt and focus on them.

What is your vision for the future of County Leitrim?

As the best place to live, work, and raise a family. The county has a wonderful quality of life, low crime levels, and many amenities, with more in development. Additionally, it has high-quality sporting facilities and schools. All of these assets need to be further developed and enhanced to realise our vision.