BY JEROME HUGHES
RAISING concern surrounding child safety on roads outside Donegal’s schools is nothing new but one local election candidate is making it his main campaign issue.
Patrick Brogan is based in Moutcharles but he points out that the danger posed to children by speeding motorists is a problem right across the county.
“When parents are dropping their children to school and picking them up, they feel like it’s a dangerous challenge. Things should not be like that. It’s a problem that has to be fixed,” says Mr Brogan.
“Children have actually been struck and thankfully escaped death. On top of that there have been a lot of near misses and close calls. Parents are at their wit’s end at this stage.
“The answer is traffic calming measures for certain locations. Speed bumps are needed outside schools.
“If the people are good enough to give me their vote, I’ll make this a priority in Donegal County Council,” he insists.
Patrick Brogan is married to Maria and the couple have four children.
The 50 year old is competing for a seat on Donegal County Council for the first time, running for the Aontú party.
Aside from safety outside schools, Mr Brogan is also passionate about the need to improve the healthcare system, particularly for children with Autism.
The condition impacts how a person communicates and interacts with others, and each of Mr Brogan’s three sons and one daughter are Autistic.
“Children are going across the border for a diagnosis because the waiting list here can be up to three years. When you get a diagnosis, you could wait another 3 years for speech and language therapy,” according to the would-be councillor.
“With autism, waiting times for assistance can make the difference between living an ordinary life or dealing with issues for the rest of your life. Early intervention is really critical.
“We had more services 20 years ago than we have today. As I’m getting older, I need to start planning for when I’m not here. I have to play the long game. My children need me and I need support,” added Mr Brogan.
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