Leyden is a former activist for Fine Gael but was not selected for the party election ticket. She has a degree and Masters in politics. She most recently worked in finance. She is a trained tutor and a former leader of the Ennis Girl Guides.

I want people to vote for me because I am highly qualified. My BA and MA are both in politics. I am very diplomatic, empathetic and have built up good relations in my community.

My vision for my constituency is well-populated, thriving, multi-cultural villages and towns with a strong emphasis on tourism and the arts with strong industrial zones.

One thing I would like to do in my first one hundred days would be to get the ball rolling on legislation to recognise parental alienation as a form of child abuse.