Priorities
What we focus on
If elected, Naeem's strongest priorities will be the issues which residents feel daily.
Based on feedback from the public, the top three issues are set out below—each with context and the areas Naeem will work on.
Housing pressure and planned growth
Portlaoise is growing rapidly, but demand continues to outpace infrastructure and housing availability. Even while large numbers of homes are being delivered, demand remains intense and land availability inside Portlaoise itself is becoming a challenge.
What Naeem will work on
- Faster delivery of affordable and social housing
- Bring vacant and derelict properties back into use
- Ensure new estates include schools, parks and services
- Push for balanced development so infrastructure grows with population
Healthcare access and GP shortages
Population growth in Portlaoise has not been matched by healthcare capacity. Concerns have been raised around GP shortages and pressure on local services.
What Naeem will work on
- Campaign for more GP capacity and primary care services
- Push for expansion of healthcare infrastructure
- Support better ambulance and community care provision
- Advocate for stronger local health investment
Traffic, transport and local infrastructure
As Portlaoise expands, transport concerns increasingly follow growth. Funding exists for road maintenance, but frustrations remain over congestion, bypass projects, cycling infrastructure and planning for future growth.
What Naeem will work on
- Safer roads and junction improvements
- Better cycle lanes and walking routes
- Stronger public transport connections
- Pressure for long-promised traffic solutions around Portlaoise