Farrelly is a Social Democrats councillor for Kildare County Council, and is a party candidate for Kildare North. A former media correspondent, he has also worked as an assistant lecturer in Maynooth University.

I am honoured to be the Social Democrats candidate for Kildare North. Following Catherine Murphy's decision not to contest this election, I believe that now more than ever we need Social Democrats representatives in Leinster House.

The most consistent issue coming up in this campaign is the failure of successive governments to provide essential services in parallel with housing development. Whether its medical, disability, childcare or education - communities are being deprived of vital services.

I have not looked past the date of Friday 29th November. If I am privileged to be elected, I will use my first speaking time to summarise with vigour the issues that have been raised with me over the last number of months and years. Because families and communities deserve change now.