‘Anti-foreigner sentiment on social media doesn’t translate to real life’

Campaigning for local elections is a very new experience for Luba Healy, Fine Gael candidate in the Trim electoral area, but she has certainly taken it in her stride and was delighted to have Taoiseach, Simon Harris canvass with her at the weekend.

Luba, a Ukrainian national who has lived in Ireland for 24 years, has hit the ground running when it comes to canvassing and is enjoying the experience.

“It is honestly very interesting, going to the doors and meeting people and hearing the issues they are facing.

“I am learning so much. It is quite an experience,”

Luba has voted in every election since she was first registered to vote, but until now never imagined running for election.

“I believe it is really important to vote and to look at the issues.”

Luba was approached by Fine Gael to run as their candidate several months ago.

“I had a couple of months to think about it and to learn about the party. I think that since the recession they have done a job and Ireland is thriving in a lot of areas and it is a very inclusive party,” she said.

Luba has received an overall positive reception on the doorstep. “I just met two or three people who told me they wouldn't vote for a foreigner. In general people have been welcoming and supportive. The anti-foreigner sentiment you see on social media doesn't seem to translate to real life,” she said.

“When I go to the door and meet Ukrainians, they are so excited - 'Oh my God I cannot believe it' - they say. They are delighted that a Ukrainian can seek election, but a lot of them aren't registered to vote. I have explained to them how to register, but we will see,” she said.

“I enjoy canvassing. It is my favourite part of the process , meeting people and I hope that I will be able to give back to them.

“It was really exciting to have Simon Harris canvass with me and it brought great attention to the town.

Among the issues she has had raised at the doorstep, the shortage of GPs and scarcity of school places are among those raised most regularly.

“We need more GPs in the area and more primary and secondary school places. I believe that since Covid we need to be looking after our small and medium businesses.

“We also need traffic calming measures in towns to keep our children safe.”

Luba feels she has a great team behind her. “They are brilliant. I'm listening to their advice, they have so much energy and enthusiasm.

Luba is well known across Meath. Having lived her for the past 24 years, when the war broke out in Ukraine she helped in welcome the refugees as they arrived in Ireland and Meath, as well as setting off to her war torn homeland to bring her Mum and late grandmother to safety in Trim. Sadly her grandmother Galina died earlier this year, but her Mum Nina is one of her greatest supporters.

“Mam's message is 'what for you, wont pass you by'.”

“This is a really big deal for me. It is exciting and scary. I want to be able to give back to this community after so many years,” Luba concluded.