Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Leas-Cheann Comhairle for the opportunity to contribute to the debate on this legislation. Like all politicians, I love elections and enjoy the debate and the cut and thrust, except when it is my own election. I wish all the upcoming candidates well and commend them on their bravery. No matter what the cynics and armchair pundits say, campaigning is tough on the candidates, their heads, their families and their friends. This is an important point to make in the context of the Bill. When one wins, though, it is amazing.

We need young, vibrant candidates. One such person in the Clontarf ward of the local elections is the excellent Independent Councillor Damien O'Farrell. He is a man for the future and I urge people to support him.

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