New election candidate calls for a Young Lord Mayor Programme in Dublin City Council
Pembroke’s local Fianna Fáil organisation has recently selected Rory Hogan, a 25-year-old rising star, as their newest candidate for the Pembroke ward in the upcoming local elections. A native of Donnybrook, Rory brings fresh ideas and a fervent commitment to revitalising the community he calls home.
If elected, Rory will advocate for a Young Lord Mayor programme. Inspired by the ‘Young Mayor’ in Lewisham Council in London, he wants to start a similar programme here in Dublin where young people across the city can be nominated to become the Young Lord Mayor of Dublin and raise issues at council level relevant to young people. He envisages the programme to be open for anyone between the ages of 12 and 21 on an annual rotation basis.
“This initiative would be pivotal for age inclusivity. Not enough young people participate in politics, and this would offer an opportunity for young people to make a difference in their communities and have their say in the future of the city. This will be especially important when the council is making decisions and considering changes as the Young Lord Mayor will be able to challenge these.” Rory said.
Another policy which Rory has been passionate about is a Dublin City Council campaign for positive mental health messaging. He feels that the council has not played its role in promoting positive mental health messaging nearly enough and if elected, he will advocate tirelessly for more initiatives to be undertaken by the council.
One of his suggested initiatives is for the council to lead the way on public advertisement campaigns using positive mental health messages. He mentioned how the smallest things can lift a person’s spirit, and that a sign that tells someone they matter can make the world of difference.
Rory added: “While it seems like a small initiative, some people do not realise how much they need to hear or read those words until they do. It can change someone’s mood instantaneously and if I saw something like that each morning, I would be in a better mood throughout the day. Urban isolation and loneliness are issues that are not discussed nearly enough.”
Rory Hogan’s journey is one marked by dedication and service. A Donnybrook local and UCD alumnus with a degree in Economics, Politics, and Innovation, Rory’s passion for public service ignited during his tenure as a political assistant in Leinster House. Prior to that, he honed his skills working alongside Barry Andrews MEP.
Currently employed at a leading public relations firm, Rory brings a unique blend of experience to the table, combining political insight with communication expertise.
In his maiden speech as a candidate, Rory Hogan expressed his deep loyalty to Pembroke and Dublin City, outlining his commitment to increasing housing supply locally and making local villages more attractive to local businesses. He also advocated for more lenient commercial rates for business start-ups in derelict spaces.
Rory Hogan’s candidacy is underpinned by three core pillars:
- community development,
- housing reform, and
- mental health support.
He is committed to representing the interests of Pembroke ward residents, introducing fresh perspectives, and working tirelessly to create a brighter future for the community.
For more information contact: Rory Hogan, rory.hogan.dbs@gmail.com, (086) 086 1237
