Ray Cunningham
Climate change and biodiversity loss is a crisis, the biggest challenge we face. We have to change how we live – but we can change our lives for the better, making sure everyone has access to the things that are truly important.
Like a lot of people during the pandemic, I stopped and looked around at the place I live. I think this area has so much potential, and there are so many people trying hard to improve it. I want to support that work, and help make this a better place for us all to live.
Our community is built around the spaces we share. We can have better parks and green spaces, if we plant more native trees and wildflowers, and add more benches and bins. Community energy programmes, community gardens, shared leaf composting bins, water collection to prevent flooding… there are so many projects, large and small, that can bring us together to improve our local environment.
Our roads are congested. A lot of traffic is coming from outside the area. New developments on the Long Mile road and Davitt road will make the situation worse. We need to make our streets safer and cleaner, by improving public transport and cycling facilities, and reducing through traffic.
We need more housing in the area, but it has to be the right kind of housing – good quality, cost-rental and affordable, higher density but fitting in with the existing community.
Experience
I’ve lived in Walkinstown for the last twenty years, and raised my family here. I work as a technical writer, my job is to analyse complex material, find the key information, and make it accessible to everyone. In my spare time, I’m a runner, an athletics coach, and a Parkrun volunteer. Running has taught me that you can achieve a huge amount through steady and consistent hard work.
Help my campaign
We need volunteers on the ground to canvass, deliver leaflets and take part in local events. You can come along to one of our branch meetings if you’re interested in getting involved. Get in touch with me to find out more.
Donations allow me to connect with people and get the message of social equality and climate action out there. Please donate to help me work towards a better future for us all.
