Independent Ireland is proud to announce the candidacy of Cllr Paul Hogan for the Longford/Westmeath constituency in the upcoming General Election. With a wealth of experience and a proven track record of commitment, Hogan is well-positioned to represent the people of the Midlands.

First elected in 2004 at just 21 years of age, Hogan has served on every council since and had the distinction of being the youngest Mayor of Athlone. Known for his dedication and deep understanding of local issues, Paul Hogan has been one of the most effective public representatives in the Midlands for nearly two decades. His commitment to his community is matched by his academic achievements, holding a Master’s in Child and Youth Care, a First Class Honours Degree in Social Care, and a First Class Diploma in Community Development Practice from NUIG. In addition to his public service, Paul is also a Social Care lecturer at the Technological University of the Shannon.

“I am delighted to be selected by Independent Ireland to contest the constituency of Longford/Westmeath,” said Hogan. “Independent Ireland’s common-sense approach to politics is resonating with people. We offer a real alternative to the Government’s failed policies and their inability to listen to the people.”

Paul Hogan narrowly missed out on a Dáil seat in 2016, but he remains deeply appreciative of the support he received. This time around, he is more determined than ever to deliver real results for the people of Longford and Westmeath. Hogan highlighted the lack of accountability and transparency in today’s government as key issues driving his candidacy.

“There is a complete lack of accountability in the Dáil,” Hogan continued. “Government decisions are having a detrimental impact on local communities, from housing crises to the rising cost of living. It’s time for change, and I am ready to lead that change.”

Key Issues and Platform

Paul Hogan’s platform focuses on addressing the pressing issues that affect the lives of the people in Longford and Westmeath:

• Housing Crisis: Hogan is committed to tackling the housing crisis, which has led to record numbers of people experiencing homelessness, living in overcrowded or substandard conditions, and struggling with soaring rents.

• Cost of Living: Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are under immense pressure from rising energy, food, and fuel costs. Hogan has pledged to fight for better support for SMEs, including extending the 9% VAT rate for businesses in need.

• Public Services: Hogan stressed the need for urgent action in healthcare, education, and public services. “Our health service is in chaos, waiting lists continue to grow, and vital services like CAMHS are woefully underfunded. We must do more for our nurses, doctors, teachers, and public servants,” he said.

• Rural Communities: Hogan is also focused on revitalizing rural communities. He is determined to address the decline in services in towns and villages, the pressures on family farms, and the ongoing lack of investment in critical infrastructure like water and road safety.

Leadership Endorsements

Independent Ireland’s Leader Michael Collins TD endorsed Hogan’s candidacy, stating:
“Paul Hogan has been a powerful voice for the Midlands for nearly two decades. His deep understanding of the issues facing Longford and Westmeath, combined with his proven leadership, makes him an excellent choice to represent the people in the Dáil. Paul is exactly the kind of representative Independent Ireland is proud to support.  I would urge the people of Longford Westmeath to support Paul's campaign, he is as dedicated and hardworking councillor and has been a huge asset to Independent Ireland in helping us to build our party, a vote for Paul is a vote for community first, common sense politics”

Michael Fitzmaurice TD echoed this sentiment, saying:
“Paul Hogan has a proven track record of delivering for his community. His dedication to the people of Longford and Westmeath, and his commitment to fighting for common-sense solutions, make him the right choice for the Midlands. I’m proud to support his candidacy and look forward to working closely with him to achieve real results for the people.”