Name: James Carroll

Profile: I was born in Our Lady of Lourdes hospital. I went to Harestown NS in Monasterboice and St Oliver’s Community College. I am the only son of former nurse Judy Bell and mechanic Jim Carroll. I have two sisters Briege and Fiona. In 2007, I graduated with a law degree from UCD. While in UCD, I was President of UCD Students’ Union (2005/06) and Chairman of the Kevin Barry Cumann (2006/07). I am currently Parliamentary Assistant to Monaghan TD Margaret Conlon. I play gaelic with Naomh Mairtin GFC. I am a member of Seapoint Pitch and Putt Club in Termonfechin.
Do local politicians have an impact on the daily lives of people in Drogheda
and if so how?
I believe they do.  Councillors are the people that see how legislation, tax changes, school facilities and medical care affects the people of Drogheda on a daily basis. A good councillor is one that can get the message of the needs of the people of Drogheda to Government level. A good Councillor will fight for the people of Drogheda each and every day and ensure that they get a better deal. Without a hard working and dedicated Councillor, the people of Drogheda, the coast and south Louth will go unheard.

One thing Drogheda needs?
Drogheda needs many things. All communities do, and these needs change all the time. When Mary in number 14 gets her medical card, her needs are no longer for a medical card but maybe for better classroom facilities. She wants to make sure her family is healthy and gets a good education. I believe as a Borough and County Councillor, I can help Mary and all residents of Drogheda, the coast and south Louth solve some of their daily worries. On a specific level though, the north side of Drogheda needs a playground.  We also need better activity-based facilities for the young and elderly people of Drogheda. I also know that my interest in Gaelic football and Pitch and Putt growing up has no doubt shaped my views. I want to make sure that opportunity is more readily available and more attractive to young people.

Person most admired?
Mahatma Gandhi; he motivated people by his actions not his words. He swore to speak the truth and this got him into much trouble. I respect him so much because he always did what he believed to be the right thing regardless of the popularity of it.