Sinn Féin unveils eighth candidate for Mayo local elections

Long-serving community activist and carers’ advocate Maura O’Sullivan has been selected by Sinn Féin as the second Castlebar candidate in June's local elections in Mayo.

The selection convention took place in the TF Hotel when Islandeady resident, Maura, was officially ratified as the eighth Sinn Féin candidate running in Mayo.

A long-time Sinn Féin activist, Maura is a well-known local businesswoman and has a track record in community and voluntary work, with a focus on advocating for carers.

“I am passionate about the plight of carers in our community, and feel that their needs must be heard, and responded to in ways that actually help,” she said.

“I am a mother and grandmother and have spent much of my career as a qualified Health Care Support Worker. I also have extensive personal experience in care of the elderly from fulltime caring for my dear father who suffered from Alzheimer’s.”

Maura also volunteers for both Meals and Wheels and the weekly community group in Islandeady which gives her the opportunity to spend quality time with older members of the community, and to fund raise for vital services.

She also has a keen business sense and wants to assist new start-ups in the Castlebar area.

“Having been instrumental in setting up three small and successful businesses, I have the insight and knowledge to encourage, support and help to provide guidance for new business start-ups in our area,” said Maura.

The Sinn Féin candidate believes that her lived experience will be a valuable asset to Mayo County Council, where there are currently only two female councillors out of 30.

“We only have two female councillors out of 30 on Mayo County Council which is unfortunately one of the lowest percentages of female councillors in the country. We need to see more balanced decision making and more diversity in our council chambers and I believe my lived experience can make a difference.

“I am standing in the 2024 local elections because I want to help bring about

change. My personal experience as a carer, a volunteer and as a small business owner gives me an insight into the needs of the local people, and I will work to bring about real change. I want to offer support, care, and to promote the economic well-being of the people of our community,” she concluded.