Why I got involved in politics

I got involved in politics because it is my passion. Politics has been part of my life and now I take it as an opportunity to be a voice for those who feel they do not have one. Politics - especially at local level is a great place to start to change individual lives while connecting with the people you are working with and the constituents you are working for. I want to positively contribute to our community in Greystones.

I am actively and positively involved in politics because I strongly believe in being part of the movement and great machine that works to bring about change. I want to be a role model not only for my children but the community at large in all of the Greystones Municipal District.

My priorities

Social and affordable housing

I have seen at first hand how the housing crisis has affected families - mine included - and how devastating the situation is. I will work hard to fight for safe, sustainable social and affordable housing in the Greystones Municipal area as we work towards eradicating the housing crisis.

Youth and young adults

Here in Greystones we have a huge and growing young population. Thankfully we have many new schools locally and more coming. Our youth are our future and our future leaders. I believe that they are the forgotten generation who need more supports as they transition to adulthood. Not all teens love sports etc so why not create a space and place where they can flourish and blossom in areas they love. I am committed to providing youth spaces and social clubs in the Greystones Municipal area to give them a space to just be teenagers and do what they love doing from music, dance, skating or just chilling with their friends.

Women's Equality, Empowerment, Safety.

If there is anything the Covid pandemic has shown us, it is how dire the situation is with domestic abuse and how unsafe even walking down the street could be when you are a woman. Here in the Greystones Municipal area many women and families have to rely on the amazing Bray Womens Refuge but is often oversubscribed. I strongly believe that we need to hold government accountable in fulfilling their promise to provide safety and protection to victims. we need more refuges and sustainable funds for agencies and organisations to work efficiently with enough resources. it is my goal to support, advocate and fight for increased support and resources particularly in the Greystones Municipal District.

Local Infrastructure

Our population here in the Greystones Municipal area has grown hugely in the last 10 years. We need invest in proper infrastructure that will keep up with the demand of the growing population.

This includes public transport, roads, schools and more. I will work with the authorities to develop such infrastructure and continue to voice our concerns when it comes to overdevelopment. 

Equality, Integration and inclusion

In my voluntary work locally here in Greystones and Wicklow I have always promoted an inclusive society that celebrates different cultures and interculturalism. I believe in a society that is equal for all regardless of background, race, religion or community. I will continue to fight and advocate for our communities to be free from discrimination, racism, homophobia and more. Through education and empowerment I will work on making our society safe for everyone.

My background

I was born in Kenya. I moved to Ireland over a decade ago and have lived in Greystones for almost a decade with my family.

In our community in Greystones with neighbours I began a multicultural event now held annualy as a positive response after My children and I experienced discrimination and racism. This event has helped local communities here in Greystones by educating and empowering the community to embrace new communities and their culture as well as minorities by promoting diversity and inclusivity.

Here in Greystones I have contributed widely to our community through being on the board of Greystones Family Resource Centre and also in Greystones Community College I am member of the parent leadership team.

From a young age, I have been an activist and advocate for girls and women. I fought for the right for girls to have access to education.

I have been involved in many campaigns here in Ireland including Marriage Equality, Repeal the 8th campaign, LGBTQ+ rights and Climate Change. I am also a strong campaigner against FGM for women and girls.

I am currently studying Social Science and Cultural Innovation at Dublin City University, developing new skills and widening her horizons as she deepens her understanding of Ireland and its history.

I have been selected by the members of the Greystones Labour Ross Connolly Branch to run in local elections for election to Greystones Municipal District Area of Wicklow County Council in June 2024.

Clubs and Committees

• Greystones Family resource centre: Board member;

• Greystones Community College: member of the parent leadership team;

• Labour Equality: Chairperson;

• Labour Women: Women Support Officer;

• African Irish Society of Wicklow: as the Vicechair;

• AkiDwA (migrant women's network): Community health ambassador and domestic violence support worker and advocate;

• Wezesha (African diaspora organisation): Board member;

• Communities Alliance Against Racism;

• Bray for Love;

• Network of African Irish Leaders: Co-ordinator;

• DCU: student rep for BA social science and cultural innovation.

Further details

Please may I have a news/update tab and also a donate tab. Thank you in advance.

Thank you for all your hard work.

Regards.

Anne Waithira Burke.