CANDIDATE.. Paul Blake, SDLP
THE NEW candidate for the SDLP in Erne North is Enniskillen-born Paul Blake.
The 29-year-old, a politics with international relations graduate at the University of Dundee, has been a member of the party for close to 15 years – and is looking forward to getting stuck in what matters to local people.
“I always have had an interest in politics and have been a member of the party going back 15 years. I’ve been involved in many campaigns,” he told the Fermanagh Herald.
“The SDLP for me was really just the party that stood out, that was leading by example. It was trying to change things for the right, trying to achieve things.”
Paul works as part of the family business at Blakes of the Hollow in Enniskillen, and the former St Joseph’s College student previously served on the Fermanagh Shadow Youth Council, and at university was elected as Sports Union president.
“The best thing for me is meeting people. Getting to the doors and meeting people. I’m excited about the coming weeks, meeting people and finding out what their issues are.
“For me, that is the best part: Knowing that you’re representing people – and that you can be approachable and a friendly face to someone.”
Mr Blake is joining John Coyle as a candidate in Erne North; which encompasses Ballinamallard, Kesh, Irvinestown and Belleek. In Erne West, the SDLP are putting forward Brendan Gallagher and Ritchie McPhillips, while Patricia Rodgers is standing in Enniskillen.
Mr Blake cited jobs, the fate of local businesses, roads and Fracking as already on his radar in terms of issues, but knows that more will come to light as canvassing continues.
“I think I can offer new ideas, a fresh and vibrant approach. Something that the SDLP is focussing on in this election is bringing forward new candidates, new young candidates – and I hope to be a pat of that approach,” Mr Blake continued.
“I’m looking forward to gaining the experience, and I think that Erne North is a great platform for that.”
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