Naoise Ó Cearúil

More schools doctors and amenities are needed in north Kildare

by · Leinster Leader

Better healthcare along with more schools and recreational facilities are needed across County Kildare by a growing population.

Fianna Fáil general election candidate in Kildare North Cllr Naoise Ó Cearúil said towns like Leixlip, Celbridge, Maynooth, Kilcock, Sallins, Naas, Clane, Kill, Johnstownbridge, and Broadford have seen new housing developments -  but “essential social and physical infrastructure” must follow.

He says the need for comprehensive public services has never been more critical.

“Areas across the Kildare North constituency have seen tremendous progress in addressing the housing crisis. We’re fortunate to have the new housing developments that have been built in recent years. As a homeowner in one of these new areas, I know first hand how this growth has benefited our community,” he said. 

But there aren’t enough healthcare, education and recreational services. He said it is   extremely challenging for residents to find a GP, childcare services, or even a place in a crèche and “the demand is vastly outstripping supply.”

He added: “Basic amenities like playgrounds in towns such as Leixlip, Celbridge, Maynooth, Kilcock, Clane, Naas, and Kill are insufficient, and the few that exist are in desperate need of upgrades.”

He also said schools are at or close to full capacity, and there is a growing need for additional school places, particularly in special education and the lack of autism spectrum disorder units and special needs assistants “is putting children with additional needs, especially those with autism, at a disadvantage.”

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He’s promising to prioritise the social and physical infrastructure needs.

 “My platform is built on ensuring Kildare North has a strong voice advocating for the social services and facilities our communities deserve. This region has been overlooked for far too long compared to other parts of Kildare and Ireland. We need leadership that will prioritise investment in the future.”

He added essential services must match the pace of development. 

“It’s time to build the infrastructure to support our growing communities.”