Kerry Labour candidate ditches election posters – ‘Actions should align with values’

Tralee’s Ben Slimm cites reasons why election posters are not for him as June elections near.

Tralee Labour Party candidate Ben Slimm.

Stephen Fernane
© Kerryman

The issue of whether or not politicians should erect election posters on lampposts is something Tralee Labour Party candidate Ben Slimm is quite clear about.

He announced earlier this week that, in the best interests of sustainability and road safety, he was opting out of the rush to hang posters from on high ahead of his election campaign.

In a move reflecting concerns for the environment and road users, Mr Slimm cited three key reasons for this decision. He feels that corri-board posters are traditionally used only once and often get discarded afterward, adding to the mounting issue of plastic waste.

“In the face of a global climate emergency, I believe every step toward reducing single-use plastics matters. This campaign will set a positive example for environmentally conscious politics,” he said.

Safety concerns for pedestrians and road users is a further reason why he feels posters on lampposts is a bad idea. Mr Slimm believes they can obstruct visibility and create potential hazards for pedestrians, motorcyclists, cyclists, and other road users.

“By choosing not to use these posters, my aim is to eliminate any risks posed to the community,” he said.

Thirdly, with a cost of living crisis and rising campaign expenses, corri-board posters are an expensive option that he, and many others, don't have access to. His campaign will instead focus on direct voter engagement through meeting constituents and digital outreach.

"I believe it's crucial that our actions align with our values," Mr Slimm said.

"By foregoing traditional corri-board posters, I'm taking a stand for a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable Tralee," he added.