My name is Joe Cronin.

Full statement

I have lived in Poole now for nearly 20 years, having met my wife Kate who was born here. I am originally from Kinsale, Ireland, where I trained as a doctor, I work as a local GP.

Objectives: Improve children’s health and wellbeing on a local and national level. As a GP I am only too aware that mental health services for children, in Dorset are woefully inadequate. This is an issue that crops up on an almost daily basis; consequently troubled children often grow up to be troubled adults, with drastic consequences for the individual and society as a whole. The solution is to prioritise children’s mental health with adequate funding of services.

Diffuse tensions in society: Most people feel voiceless, disenfranchised and very frustrated with the current political system. So many people have disengaged completely, especially the younger population. We need pragmatism and considered debate : A move away from the two party system, (effectively socialism versus capitalism) to a more nuanced politics.

Work to introduce proportional representation so that more parties and people have their ideas represented and expressed in parliament.

I put myself forward as an independent candidate as I am tired of politicians treating the population like fools, with their vacuous sloganeering, vague commitments, untruths and unfulfilled promises. This is no way to behave, we need and deserve better. I am an optimist and believe significant change is on its way, as things have to change.

Please see arguments relating to my main objectives on my webpage : joeindependentpoole.co.uk

I promise to act honestly and ethically if chosen to represent the people of Poole.