Name: Louise Heavin
Age: 31
Preferred pronouns: She
Political Party: Green Party
Constituency: Longford Westmeath
Candidate’s stance on the issues that matter most to young people
Climate Crisis
Our systems need to move to tackle climate change through a good programme for retrofitting buildings, development of community energy schemes and work to protect and restore our natural environment. We have to ensure a just transition for our communities and families that currently rely on carbon intensive activities.
Reducing Homelessness
As an Architect I am passionate about tackling the housing crisis and providing good quality, affordable and sustainable homes for all. Vacant and derelict sites must be targeted for housing and new mixed tenure schemes should be carefully planned in our communities.
Mental Health Services
Mental health has been services have been several underfunded for decades. I am committed to reverse this trend and ensure appropriate services are available locally in communities across Ireland. The Green party also supports a nationwide implementation of the SCAN crisis response service for suicidal persons.
Education Funding, including Third-level Fees
I would like to expand the funding of the SUSI grant scheme to make it available to more students and put in place a free travel scheme for students. The Green Party will also prioritise supports for homeless students, students in direct provision and students from disadvantaged areas to help them stay and progress in education.
Funding for Youth Work
Candidate did not answer question.
Direct Provision
I will work towards ending Direct Provision and replacing it with a not for profit system based on accommodation provided through existing or new approved housing bodies. At the same time, implement all the recommendations of the McMahon Report to improve conditions for Asylum Seekers currently living in the system.