Kildare activist officially appointed as new Sinn Féin representative for Newbridge LEA

A 19-year-old activist from Kildare has been selected by Sinn Féin to be the party's representative for the Newbridge Local Electoral Area (LEA).

James Stokes, who is also a member of the Traveller Community, had his nomination approved by the Grey Abbey Martyrs Cumann on Tuesday, April 15 last.

Last year, Mr Stokes notably made headlines nationwide as he was the youngest local election candidate in Ireland.

Although he missed out on being appointed to a seat on the Kildare-Newbridge Municipal District, his party colleague, Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh, was elected as a councillor. Deputy Ní Raghallaigh was later appointed as a TD for Kildare South in the general election in late 2024.

Speaking following his appointment, Mr Stokes said: "I’m honoured to have been selected as SF’s area representative for the Newbridge LEA. I am rooted in my community, and I’m committed to standing up for local people, fighting for real change, and working hard for the LEA.

"I look forward to working closely with Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh TD to fight for issues that matter — particularly access to education, public transportation, housing, and better amenities."

He added that one of his key priorities is to fighting for a direct public bus service from Newbridge to Maynooth University.

"I have been consistently ignored on by the Minister, despite a petition with over 500 signatures," Mr Stokes claimed. "This service is vital for students and I will continue to push for it until it’s delivered."

In addition, he also expressed his desire to progress the Kilcullen Design Statement.

'A HUGE HELP'

Deputy Ní Raghallaigh also welcomed the appointment of Mr Stokes: "James has been a committed member of the party for years and narrowly missed out in the 2024 local elections, a real sign of the strong support he has built in the community.

"He’s been a huge help to me personally throughout my campaigns and in my work in Teach Laighean. 

She continued: "James is deeply rooted in Newbridge, a passionate advocate for his town, equality, public transportation, housing, and especially committed to improving opportunities for young people.

"We’ll be working closely together to deliver for Newbridge, starting with our first joint campaign to deliver a play park for LHD (Lakeside–Highfield–Dara Park) so children have access to amenities in their area."

"I’ve no doubt James will be a fantastic representative for the people of Newbridge," Deputy Ní Raghallaigh concluded.

In addition, Mr Stokes informed the Leader that he is expecting to welcome a baby boy into the world with his partner in July of this year.

Mr Stokes can be contacted via email at JamesStokesNB@gmail.com.

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