PBP's Patrick Curtin running for 2024 local election

Waterford man Patrick Curtin is running for the 2024 local elections under People Before Profit (PBP).

Patrick is the PBP candidate for Waterford City South.

In recent years, he was SU President for SETU (South East Technological University). The housing crisis is the key issue that he aims to tackle. 

Patrick said: "Waterford has now 97 people homeless that we know of, which is the highest in all of the South East of the country. The homelessness crisis in Waterford is a multifaceted issue, deeply rooted in systemic failures and Governmental oversights. It's clear that the lack of investment in social housing and ineffective regulation of the rental market are significant contributors to this escalating problem."

Patrick asserted that the local authority has the ability to improve the situation by converting derelict buildings into homes. 

“Local councils possess a golden opportunity to make a meaningful difference," he said. "By renovating derelict and vacant properties, they can not only provide much-needed homes but also rejuvenate entire communities," he added.

"People Before Profit has been vocal in urging local councils to exercise compulsory purchase orders for properties that have been abandoned for years. This bold move would serve as a proactive step towards utilizing untapped resources, offering a beacon of hope for those caught in the throes of homelessness.” 

Recently, he pinpointed the vacant former men's hostel on Great George’s Street, next to the Port of Waterford building. Patrick described the building as “a prime example of a derelict property that could be converted into homes".

He added: “Having a large scale property like this put back into use will help reduce the homeless figures and also help reduce the housing waiting lists and finally helps bring life back into the city. 

"We need a change in government now and it starts at a local level.”