Francis Foley Champions Abbeyfeale’s Development with Integrity

The political landscape of Abbeyfeale is shaped by the integrity and dedication of Francis Foley, a long-serving member of the Limerick City and County Council. First elected in 2004, Foley has cultivated a reputation for his commitment to community development and civil discourse, distinguishing himself in a field often marked by contention.

Political Philosophy Rooted in Collaboration

Foley’s approach to politics is not typical. He believes in collaboration over confrontation, stating, “We’re all there to do a job. I have my own interests here in Abbeyfeale and the Newcastle West district, and obviously that’s at the forefront, but you have to work with others.” This perspective reflects his philosophy that success in politics stems from negotiation and mutual respect.

Throughout his five terms, Foley has consistently been re-elected, underscoring his effective engagement with constituents. He emphasizes that political achievements can only be realized through cooperative efforts. “Anything we achieve politically can only be done through negotiation,” he remarks, highlighting his preference for constructive dialogue over political disputes.

A Personal Journey from Abbeyfeale

Born in Birmingham before moving to Abbeyfeale at the age of three, Foley’s roots run deep in the community. He recalls fond memories of growing up on Church Street, where he was surrounded by family and local culture. “My father was from Abbeyfeale and my mother is from Dromkeen. We lived in Dromkeen for a time before moving to Abbeyfeale where my grandparents were,” he shares. This connection to place informs his commitment to local issues and development.

After leaving school at 15, Foley began working in Tadgh O’Connor Hardware in Newcastle, where he remains employed today. He reflects on the evolution of his workplace, noting the transition from manual methods to modern technology, stating, “When I started working first, we didn’t even have a calculator.”

Addressing Local Challenges

As a prominent figure in local governance, Foley is acutely aware of the pressing needs of Abbeyfeale. A key focus of his current agenda is the public realm plan, which aims to enhance the town’s infrastructure and amenities. He expresses optimism about the proposed bypass for Abbeyfeale, stating, “I think it will eventually come to fruition. We are progressing it, and I honestly believe it’s moving a lot faster than I thought it was going to.”

Traffic congestion is a significant concern, with estimates indicating that between 18,000 and 20,000 vehicles pass through Abbeyfeale daily. Foley advocates for the bypass as a solution to alleviate this issue, which he believes is essential for the town’s growth and accessibility.

“You can see the traffic. There’s a lot of it. A bypass, no doubt, is needed,” he asserts, emphasizing the importance of attracting new businesses to the area. He aims to nurture existing local enterprises while advocating for infrastructure improvements, such as traffic lights and new parking facilities, to enhance the experience for residents and visitors alike.

Foley’s optimistic outlook on community development is palpable as he discusses the potential changes. “I’ve always been the kind of person that looks at the positive side of things. If we can get these issues sorted, we can see a lot more being brought into the town,” he concludes, reinforcing his belief in the power of collaborative efforts to drive progress.

Through his steadfast dedication and principled approach to politics, Francis Foley continues to serve as a vital advocate for Abbeyfeale, demonstrating that integrity and cooperation can pave the way for meaningful community development.