Waterford Election 2024: 11 questions with Darren Ryan (Independent)

Ahead of this weekend’s local elections the Waterford News & Star asked candidates to answer 11 quickfire questions to give the electorate a view of their priorities and what can be expected from them if elected.

Cath Lab or airport?

Cath Lab 100%

Specific problem in your own electoral ward you would  like to see addressed?

Traffic congestion and public transport needs to be addressed as a matter of urgency.

What's your favourite album or book?

'To Kill a Mocking Bird', by Harper Lee We called our eldest daughter after the author.

Why did you get into politics?

To have a say in a better future for my kids and to effect positive change in our communities

What's your proudest achievement?

Convincing Roísín to go on our first date.

Potholes of cycle lanes - which would you invest in first?

Potholes, they're a hazard to both cylists and motorists

Tea or coffee?

I enjoy an occasional coffee but I'm a tea man.

Your favourite blaa filling?

Sausages and brown sauce with lots of butter.

Biggest political influence?

Gandhi said 'be the change you wish to see in the world' and that really strikes a chord with me.

Who makes the most dinners in your house?

Ordinarily I would have said me, I really enjoy cooking. But since I started canvassing four months ago my wife, Roísín has done the majority of the cooking in the Ryan household.

What one thing would you most like to see change in Waterford during your term if elected?

Ireland has one of the lowest scores in Europe when it comes to empowering local government. I would like to see a devolution of power from central to local government. Through a decentralisation of funding we could focus our resources on the projects that matter to us most in Waterford.