Charles Ward prioritises defective concrete crisis ahead of General Election

Charles Ward’s candidacy for the general election in Donegal under the banner of the 100%  Redress Party is both a personal and political commitment to address one of the county’s most pressing issues: the defective concrete crisis that has left many homeowners in peril.

His announcement underscores a deep understanding of the local community and a fierce drive for change. 

Growing up on Arranmore Island and experiencing firsthand the hardship and resilience of  Donegal families, Charles has chosen to fight for his community in a way that is both practical and personal. He has witnessed the toll this crisis has taken on families, particularly those affected by crumbling homes due to defective concrete blocks, and he is ready to lead a campaign that demands full accountability and meaningful solutions. 

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In a race where accountability and change are at the forefront, Charles Ward advocates that he is a candidate who stands out as a champion for justice, a fighter for Donegal’s future, and a man of integrity. He is calling on Donegal voters to support his vision for a county where everyone has a secure home, accessible healthcare, and a sustainable future. Charles stated  "By supporting my campaign, Donegal voters are choosing to bring fairness and dignity back into our lives. Together, we can demand the redress we deserve and build a future where every  family, farmer, and worker is respected, supported, and valued." 

Key Elements of Charles Ward’s Campaign: 

• Defective Concrete Crisis: At the core of Charles Ward’s platform is his pledge to ensure that Donegal homeowners affected by the defective concrete scandal receive 100% redress. This  includes: 

o Full Redress: Charles insists on a redress scheme that covers all repair costs  for affected families, ensuring they do not bear the financial burden of fixing a crisis they did not cause. 

o Public Inquiry: Charles is calling for a public inquiry to investigate the systemic failures that led to the defective concrete crisis and to hold those responsible accountable. 

o Streamlined Bureaucracy: He is committed to simplifying the redress process to make it more accessible, removing delays, and ensuring that families can get the help they need without further frustration. 

o Independent Oversight: Charles advocates for independent oversight of the redress process to guarantee fairness, transparency, and accountability. 

o Supportive Community Networking: Charles believes it would benefit all those affected to not only avail of counselling services, but to introduce self-help community hubs supporting each other through their experiences and sharing information in addition to facilitators engaged to date.

• Broader Vision for Donegal: While the defective concrete issue is a key focus, Charles Ward’s vision for Donegal extends far beyond this crisis. His comprehensive approach includes: 

o Strengthening Healthcare: Having worked as a healthcare assistant, Charles has firsthand experience of the challenges facing Donegal’s healthcare system,  particularly in rural areas. He aims to secure more funding for local facilities and ensure quality care is accessible to all. 

o Supporting Carers: Charles recognises the invaluable work of carers and promises to advocate for better pay and support for Donegal’s caregiving workforce. 

o Empowering Local Industries: Charles is committed to supporting Donegal’s traditional industries, like farming and fishing, ensuring that local families can continue their livelihoods while benefiting from sustainable policies. 

• A Commitment to Justice and Accountability: Charles’s candidacy represents a break from the political status quo. He is not a career politician, but a passionate advocate for change. His platform is rooted in the values of fairness, justice, and transparency. By running with the 100% Redress Party, Charles is offering voters an alternative—a voice that will truly fight for Donegal’s needs. 

• A Compassionate Leader for Donegal: Beyond policy, Charles is a compassionate leader who believes in standing up for people, not politics. His personal background working in construction, healthcare, and community life has shaped his belief in genuine, hands-on leadership. His campaign is about empowering families, healthcare workers, carers, and farmers, who form the backbone of Donegal’s community.