Hayes is an independent county councillor for Palmerstown, Lucan, North Clondalkin and a Peace Commissioner.

I want Ireland to be a better place to raise our families, to work, to visit, and to do that, I want to be at the decision-making table. I believe I have the skills that enable me to work across the political spectrum to achieve results. I don't want to hurl from the ditch. I believe the people who vote for me are voting for action, and that requires a willingness to bring people with you. The art of the possible.

We are failing to adequately provide for the most in need across several areas, including housing, special needs, healthcare. The issues vary for individuals and communities, but the underlying problem is that as a State we are neglecting to act comprehensively and definitively on the issues.

We are only custodians of this place and its resources for a short while. In 100 years we'll be gone and those who knew us will be dwindling. When we speak of a once in a lifetime opportunity to create positive change, this is it. This government term is it. Not the last one, not the next one, but here and now is where we decide to act decisively to make Ireland better. We must strip away the man-made barriers that prevent the progress we need. We must be creative, courageous, and collegiate.