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Cllr Barry Heneghan

Cllr Barry Heneghan

Independent

Ireland needs independent voices to tackle the housing crisis, improve mental health services, and support disability rights. I’ll fight for solutions like planning reform, and fairer policies to put people before party politics. Let’s build a stronger, fairer future for Dublin Bay North and Ireland

  • Priority: Housing

    My generation is locked out of homeownership. We need 60,000+ homes annually, modular construction, and higher taxes on vacant properties.

  • Priority: Taxes and spending

    We must prioritize healthcare by investing in Beaumont Hospital's new A&E , Better funding ensures shorter waiting lists and quality care for all.

  • Priority:

    Investment in disability services and mental health amenities. Everyone deserves support, especially children with autism who have been neglected.

These answers were provided by the candidate

Taxes and spending
1 of 32 questions
Money that is currently being saved for future policy challenges (such as climate change and an ageing population) should be spent now on things like housing and healthcare.
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "We should spend all available funds immediately to address inflation. By investing in housing and a green future now, we can save money in the long run. The sooner we act, the better, as it will reduce future costs, create jobs, and contribute to a sustainable, affordable future for all."

- Cllr Barry Heneghan
Taxes and spending
2 of 32 questions
Taxes on people earning over €100,000 a year should be increased.
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "The current tax system is adequate, we need focus on investing in our natural resources, such as wind and wave energy. With Ireland's vast renewable energy potential, harnessing these resources will generate significant revenue for the state. If any country had our potential the would be using it."

- Cllr Barry Heneghan
Taxes and spending
3 of 32 questions
The Universal Social Charge (USC) is a necessary source of revenue and should be kept.
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "The Universal Social Charge (USC) was introduced as an emergency measure during the banking crisis to address the financial deficit. While it helped stabilize the economy at the time, it should be phased out as the country recovers. "

- Cllr Barry Heneghan
Taxes and spending
4 of 32 questions
Tax on inheritance should be reduced, even if it means cutting back on public spending or increasing other taxes.
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "People are already taxed on their income, and they should have the right to pass on their wealth to loved ones, especially single individuals who may not have a partner to provide for them. Ensuring fairness and support families in their time of need."

- Cllr Barry Heneghan
Taxes and spending
5 of 32 questions
Universal payments, such as child benefit and energy credits, should be replaced with more targeted measures aimed at the less well-off.
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "Universal payments like child benefit and energy credits should be replaced with more targeted measures to support those who are less well-off. Additionally, the government must invest more in affordable childcare, allowing parents to return to work without the burden of high childcare costs."

- Cllr Barry Heneghan
Housing
6 of 32 questions
The government should focus on making houses more affordable rather than providing financial supports to first-time buyers.
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "Focusing on making houses more affordable is key. Financial support for first-time buyers often drives up house prices by increasing demand without addressing the root cause of the housing crisis. More homes on the market would reduce competition and help bring prices down."

- Cllr Barry Heneghan
Housing
7 of 32 questions
Planning guidelines should be relaxed to allow for more one-off rural housing
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Housing
8 of 32 questions
A rent freeze should be introduced across the country, even if it risks landlords leaving the market
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "It has not worked well in places like Scotland. While rent controls can offer short-term relief, they may lead to reduced supply, as landlords could exit the market. A more sustainable solution would focus on increasing housing supply and providing long-term affordability measures."

- Cllr Barry Heneghan
Housing
9 of 32 questions
The Local Property Tax should be scrapped, even if it means less money available for local councils
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "The local property tax should not be scrapped, but it does need reform. It should be fairer, with a system that better reflects property values and ensures that those who can afford it contribute appropriately. Reforming the tax would provide essential funding for local services."

- Cllr Barry Heneghan
Transport
10 of 32 questions
The provision of public transport (trains, light rail, buses) should be prioritised over building roads
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "Public transport should be prioritized over building new roads. We need to improve and expand public transport options like trains, light rail, and buses. This would reduce traffic congestion, lower emissions, and provide more sustainable, affordable travel options."

- Cllr Barry Heneghan
Transport
11 of 32 questions
The passenger cap at Dublin airport should be lifted
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "The passenger cap at Dublin Airport should be lifted. It’s hindering economic growth by limiting capacity and causing unnecessary delays. Expanding airport operations would support tourism, business travel, and job creation, helping Ireland compete globally while ensuring efficient services."

- Cllr Barry Heneghan
Environment, energy, agriculture
12 of 32 questions
Carbon taxes should continue to increase each year
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "Carbon taxes should not continue to increase each year without significant investment in renewable energy. We need to focus on transitioning to sustainable energy sources like wind and solar to reduce emissions effectively. A balanced approach, investing in green technologies is the key."

- Cllr Barry Heneghan
Environment, energy, agriculture
13 of 32 questions
Ireland should give up its exemption under the EU Nitrates directive
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "Ireland should retain its exemption under the EU Nitrates Directive. Farmers are already facing significant challenges with rising costs and regulations. Restricting farming practices further could negatively impact productivity and rural livelihoods. A balanced approach is what we need."

- Cllr Barry Heneghan
Environment, energy, agriculture
14 of 32 questions
The government should introduce measures to significantly reduce the extent of livestock farming in Ireland
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "Livestock farming is a vital part of Ireland's agricultural economy and rural communities. Rather than significantly reducing it, the government should focus on making farming more sustainable through better practices"

- Cllr Barry Heneghan
Environment, energy, agriculture
15 of 32 questions
Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) terminals should be allowed in Ireland, to improve security of supply
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "LNG terminals can enhance Ireland's energy security, but only if aligned with climate goals. We must ensure investments prioritize renewable energy while limiting dependence on fossil fuels. A balanced approach can protect supply while driving the transition to a greener future."

- Cllr Barry Heneghan
Social issues and education
16 of 32 questions
Abortion should be allowed in a wider range of circumstances.
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "I support a women making decision about their own bodies."

- Cllr Barry Heneghan
Social issues and education
17 of 32 questions
Policies to increase the representation of women in politics have gone too far
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "The more diversity we have in government, from all walks of life, the better we will be governed. A diverse government reflects the broader society, bringing different perspectives and experiences to decision-making. Just like having more independents rather than hive mind political parties"

- Cllr Barry Heneghan
Social issues and education
18 of 32 questions
New laws on hate speech should be introduced to protect vulnerable communities
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "New laws on hate speech are essential to protect vulnerable communities from harm and discrimination. These laws must be carefully crafted to balance free speech with the need to safeguard individuals from incitement to violence and hate"

- Cllr Barry Heneghan
Social issues and education
19 of 32 questions
Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) have too much power in Irish policy making
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "NGOs play a vital role in raising important issues and advocating for marginalized groups. However, it's essential that their influence is balanced with democratic processes, ensuring that policy decisions reflect the diverse needs of the entire population."

- Cllr Barry Heneghan
Social issues and education
20 of 32 questions
Religious instruction should only take place outside school hours in Irish primary schools
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "Religious instruction should be optional and take place outside of school hours to ensure that all children, regardless of faith, receive an inclusive and secular education. This respects diversity while allowing families to choose the religious education they want for their children."

- Cllr Barry Heneghan
Social issues and education
21 of 32 questions
Gender diversity and transgender issues should be taught in Irish primary schools
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "Gender diversity and transgender issues are in our society and children are aware of it anyway, it should be introduced in a sensitive, age-appropriate way to promote inclusivity and respect for all identities."

- Cllr Barry Heneghan
Immigration and asylum
22 of 32 questions
More resources should be given to improving conditions for asylum seekers
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "More resources should be allocated to improving conditions for asylum seekers. Providing adequate housing, healthcare, and support services is essential for ensuring their safety and dignity while they await decisions on their status. We must uphold human rights and offer a welcoming environment."

- Cllr Barry Heneghan
Immigration and asylum
23 of 32 questions
Communities should be obliged to take their fair share of asylum seekers, even if there is local opposition
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "Communities should share the responsibility of supporting asylum seekers to ensure fairness and equity across the country. While local concerns should be addressed, every community has a role to play in upholding human rights and contributing to a compassionate, inclusive society."

- Cllr Barry Heneghan
Immigration and asylum
24 of 32 questions
Accommodation centres for asylum seekers should not be located in economically disadvantaged areas
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "With proper support and resources, these communities can benefit from diversity and shared responsibility, helping to address local challenges. Like has been seen in multiple communities in Ireland, we need to copy successful cases."

- Cllr Barry Heneghan
Immigration and asylum
25 of 32 questions
Rules on immigrant work permits and student visas should become more restrictive
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "Immigrant work permits and student visas should remain accessible to foster economic growth"

- Cllr Barry Heneghan
Crime and policing
26 of 32 questions
The solution to anti-social behaviour lies in tackling poverty and disadvantage rather than tougher policing
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "Prevention is more effective than punishment, tackling poverty and disadvantage is key to addressing anti-social behavior in the long term. Investing in education, job opportunities, and community support helps address the root causes, while tougher policing alone doesn't resolve underlying issues. "

- Cllr Barry Heneghan
Crime and policing
27 of 32 questions
Gardaí should take a more robust approach to dealing with political protests
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "Gardaí should protect the right to peaceful protest as a cornerstone of democracy. While public safety must be maintained, a robust approach could infringe on freedoms. "

- Cllr Barry Heneghan
Foreign policy and defence
28 of 32 questions
Ireland should continue to provide financial and political support to Ukraine in response to the ongoing war
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "Ireland should continue to support Ukraine financially and politically in response to the ongoing war. Standing with Ukraine upholds international law, supports human rights, and demonstrates solidarity with those fighting for freedom and sovereignty in the face of aggression."

- Cllr Barry Heneghan
Foreign policy and defence
29 of 32 questions
The EU should suspend its trade agreement with Israel
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "The EU should suspend its trade agreement with Israel until there is a meaningful commitment to human rights and international law. Actions that contribute to the ongoing conflict and the violation of Palestinian rights should not be supported."

- Cllr Barry Heneghan
Foreign policy and defence
30 of 32 questions
Ireland should retain its ‘triple lock’ rule for deploying troops abroad
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "Ireland should retain its 'triple lock' rule for deploying troops abroad, as it ensures military involvement is only with the consent of the Irish government, UN, and Oireachtas."

- Cllr Barry Heneghan
Foreign policy and defence
31 of 32 questions
Ireland should collaborate more with other EU member states on defence and security
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "Ireland should remain neutral and not increase collaboration on defence and security with other EU member states. Our neutrality is a key part of our foreign policy, and maintaining it ensures we avoid becoming entangled in military conflicts, focusing instead on peacekeeping and diplomacy."

- Cllr Barry Heneghan
Irish unity
32 of 32 questions
A referendum on Irish unity should be held in the next five years
  • Agree
  • Neither agree nor disagree
  • Disagree
  • No opinion
Comment: "A referendum on Irish unity should be held in the next five years. The changing political landscape and growing support for unity make it an important opportunity to allow the people of Northern Ireland and the Republic to decide their future together, in a peaceful and democratic manner."

- Cllr Barry Heneghan

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