Waterford Election 2024: 11 questions with Richie Hayes (Fine Gael)

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?

I have first hand experience of losing a parent to a heart attack and that decision of weather or not they would go to Cork. I for one do not want any other family to have to deal with that. Who does not want a commercial airport for Waterford. It makes sense and will happen, we need to keep the pressure on at all times for both issues and make it happen. Never give up.

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

Basic grass roots issues are being ignored: street lighting, paths, road conditions. We need to instill a sense of pride back into ourselves. Some of the older parks of Waterford need relooking at when it comes to parking and walkways, as our city has grown so much over the years that what once worked may not nowadays.

What’s your favourite album or book?

My favourite album is 'Phil Collins Live'. Saw him when I was younger and he gave me the love of having a big band sound which I now have today in my own music.

Why did you get into politics?

I have always had a keen eye for politics in the background. I lived in America during Trump's presidential years and have seen various approaches. So when I was approached last year, I gave it a lot of time and thought and I feel I'm at the right stage of my life along with my skill sets and experiences to bring to the table.

What’s your proudest achievement?

My son is my world. He’s 12 years old and he makes me do what I do on a daily basis. In a career aspect. I have achieved far more than I expected with 'The Voice of Ireland', 'Celebrity Bainisteoir', and 'Mrs Browns Boys'. I ran one of Ireland’s largest stage schools for 10 years so I feel I have a good track record on setting a challenge and making it happen.

Potholes or cycle lanes – which would you invest in first?

Why can t we get both done, they are linked after all and not a big project in my eyes, back to the basic grass roots stuff as I mentioned earlier. I will say that bikes are so popular that we do need to keep cyclists as safe as possible while out on roads which are busier than ever before.

Tea or coffee?

Coffee all the way, never drank tea.

Your favourite blaa filling?

Crumbed ham just like I got every morning in Cullianes in the Mayor's Walk, while attending De La Salle; and let's not forget the Tayto on occasion also.

Biggest political influence?

Barrack Obama.

Who makes the most dinners in your house?

Me, love to cook and at one stage, considered being a chef while in school.

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

I would like to see a new energy and pride come back into our city. Address the Quay and make it what it potentially could be for the people to enjoy rather than it being a car park. Our major issues such as airport and Cath Lab become a reality. For people to feel heard and above all, to listen and be a voice for the people of Waterford. That is what they vote us in for, so that we can represent them to the best of our ability by making the right decisions when it comes to it. I am a proud Waterford man and have always pushed our city when I can. I feel a council should be made up of as many people from different backgrounds so that when it comes to decisions, the experiences are there.