Time to reverse exodus of our youth' - Mayo's youngest election candidate
AT 22 years of age, Antoinette Peyton stands as one of the youngest candidates in this year's council elections, not only in Mayo but across the country.
Embracing her youth as an asset rather than a limitation, the Swinford electoral area candidate brings a dynamic approach to tackling pressing issues facing her constituency.
“I believe we need to reverse the decline in our rural areas, turn the tide and make our local towns and villages thrive and be places where young people can secure employment, establish a home, and raise a family. I am committed to addressing the pressing challenges that confront our towns and villages, and I am dedicated to breathing new life into our local economy,” said the Fine Gael candidate.
“One of the most urgent issues we face is the exodus of our youth seeking employment opportunities elsewhere upon completing their education. It is time to reverse this decline and create real prospects for our young people right here at home and I want to be a voice at the table for our youth on Mayo County Council.”
Last year, the staggering statistic of 21,000 individuals applying for working visas before July underscores the severity of the situation, said Ms. Peyton. This year, this number is projected to rise even further as young individuals continue to grapple with the escalating cost of living and the persistent housing crisis. We cannot afford to lose more of our talented youth to distant shores.
Recent research conducted on behalf of the National Youth Council of Ireland (NYCI) is alarming: more than 70% of young people aged 18-24 are contemplating moving abroad in pursuit of what they perceive as a better quality of life elsewhere.
“We need to prioritise our local economy and infrastructure, making Swinford, Foxford, Charlestown, Kiltimagh, Kilkelly and other communities in Mayo attractive places where young people can build their futures,” she said.
“Therefore it is crucial and indeed incumbent upon us to create conditions for many of those people to stay here, work here and contribute to our communities. Furthermore, I believe we should make every effort to incentivise the return of our wonderful nurses, teachers, tradespeople and many others who currently work abroad.
“I am optimistic about the future, and with bold leadership, innovative policies, and community-driven initiatives, a brighter future can exist right here in the Swinford Local Electoral Area and in Mayo. I believe I have the energy and the drive to bring to the task ahead and that is why I am putting myself forward and seeking your support to be elected to Mayo County Council.”