Election to Laois County Council Vote No. 1

Dear friends,

It is with great humility and determination that I present myself as a candidate in the forthcoming Local Election in Portlaoise for Laois County Council.

A Chara

My name is Bolaji Adeyanju, my family and I moved to Laois 8 years ago. It was the best decision we ever made as a family. We are incredibly lucky to have amazing neighbours and a community that’s built on respect and acceptance and for this we say “go raibh maith agaibh”.

Since moving to Ireland I have worked with different organisations, from Security personnel, to over the counter attendant, to working as a Banker in the biggest bank in Ireland where I was able to make use of my third level qualification BSc. Economics and Diploma in Banking & Finance.

I formed Laois Africa Support Group (LASG) 7 years ago and it was created solely to provide support, unite, and encourage active citizenship, LASG works with various governmental and non-governmental organisations to provide training and inclusive programmes. Please see the website www.laoisafrica.com for more information.

In 2020 I obtained two qualifications, one in Citizenship & Social Action and another in Bachelor of Arts in Leadership and Community Development from the Institute of Technology, Carlow.

I have since resigned from the banking sector and now work as a Youth Justice Worker where I can inspire young people, support families, and help build a community based on love, trust and acceptance.

I am a part of the coaching team in Mountmellick U12 soccer team, I play soccer for Mountmellick over 35 team, I volunteer with the local GAA club at my free time and I also served as a member of the Laois Public Participation Network in the last 5years until this year.

Giving back to the community is of utmost importance to me and making sure everyone from any background has a voice and believes in the power of their voices.

I have wealth of experience from private, public, and non-profit making sectors. I believe these skills will help me build a stronger community.

My goal is to ensure.

• Accessible Community Centre and Sporting Facilities for all – Community centres and sporting facilities promote physical health, mental well-being and social cohesion. They offer opportunity for exercises, recreation and social interaction fostering personal growth and community resilience. This venue will provide outlet for leisure, learning and connection with the community and improve quality of life

• Supporting the people with Disability, Chronic Illness and carers- is vital for fostering inclusivity and well-being. This encompasses ensuring accessibility in various domains, facilitating easy access to healthcare, and adoptive resources, promoting employment and educational opportunities and fostering social integration through community engagement and additionally working with health services in offering respite care and psychological services to caregivers for the own welfare, prioritising this will create a more equitable community and supporting individuals with disability and chronic illnesses along with their caregivers can lead a fulfilled life and contribute positively to our community

• Employment & Work Experience Opportunities for All- This can include volunteering in the local shops for young people, organising community event like litter picking etc. mentoring youths. Such experiences foster a sense of belonging, develop valuable skills like teamwork and communication, networking opportunities and enhances resume for young people.

• Affordable Housing through the County Council and other Bodies – Although affordable housing is facilitated through the council and other organisations to provide accessible housing options for low income and moderate income individuals, some of the changes I will be looking at introducing includes subsidized rental units, shared equity schemes, or incentive for developers to build affordable houses by collaborating with various stakeholders

• Accessible Health Services- ensures that everyone regardless of location, income, or ability can obtain medical care and support. This includes physical and mental health services, preventive care, treatment and medication. Accessible encompasses factors like affordability, proximity, transportation, language and cultural sensitivity. It aims to eliminate barriers and disparities.

• Promoting Social Inclusion and Diversity- By fostering understanding, respect, and appreciation for all individuals regardless of background, culture, religion or identity. I will encourage open dialogue, celebrate differences, and create inclusive space where everyone feel valued and empowered to contribute.

• Climate Change- To address climate change we must prioritise renewable energy sources like solar and wind, while phasing out fossil fuels. Implementing policies that encourage energy efficiency and sustainable practices in industries, transportation and agriculture is crucial. Reforestation are also necessary to mitigate the impact of climate change for future generations

• Support Direct Provision- Direct provision residents deserve dignity, respect, and support. I will advocate for fair treatment, access to education, employment opportunities, healthcare, and integration programmes. I will also lobby policy makers for policy reforms ensuring human living conditions, and faster processing of asylum claims, encourage asylum seekers to volunteer and participate in local issues and activities.

• Driving Core Values, Empowerment and Unity – Core values anchor individuals and organisations, guiding their actions and decisions. Empowerment fosters confidence and autonomy, enabling individuals to reach their full potential. Unity strengthens communities fostering collaboration and solidarity. Together these principles form a foundation for growth, resilience and collective progress in society, this are the principles I will hold on to.

However, without a powerful voice to speak up for you and represent you, these objectives cannot be accomplished.

I am hoping you give me your No.1 Vote or your next highest preference.

Go raibh maith agaibh.