In a move widely expected for some time, outspoken councillors Noel Thomas and Seamus Walsh have joined the newly formed Independent Ireland party and will stand on that ticket for the forthcoming local elections.
Both councillors, following decades of service to Fianna Fail, say that by joining Independent Ireland, they will be aligning with the new party’s values of common sense, freedom of speech, and listening to and representing the concerns of their communities.
Noel Thomas, who has served as a FF councillor for the past 10 years in the Connemara South electoral area, emphasised his commitment to community involvement and local infrastructure improvements.
“I strongly believe that if a politician fails to listen to and honestly represent their constituents, then it is time for them to stand down,” said Cllr Thomas.
“Independent Ireland not only supports candidates to stand by their communities, but actively encourages them to speak honestly and openly about concerns they or their communities have, that is one of the major reasons why I have decided to join Deputies Collins, Fitzmaurice and O’Donoghue in building a real choice for the people of Connemara and the country as a whole,” he said.
Seamus Walsh, with 20 years of experience as a councillor in Connemara North, has been a staunch advocate for issues ranging from planning to community welfare.
“I am a strong believer in standing by the members of my community on issues they would be wrongly affected by,” said Cllr Walsh.
“I have served my community for over two decades, they are the people who elect me and they are the people who I will stand by. Politics needs a new party and a fresh approach, led by common sense and people first policies, the freedom to speak truthfully and represent the concerns of the people who elected you are a cornerstone of democracy, we need change in this country and I firmly believe that is what we will deliver with Independent Ireland,” he added.
Party leader Michael Collins welcomed Thomas and Walsh, noting their extensive experience and commitment to grassroots activism.
“We are honoured to have Noel Thomas and Seamus Walsh join our party. Their dedication to their communities, their integrity, courage and commitment to the principles of common sense and community first approach make them valuable additions to Independent Ireland,” said Mr Collins.
“I am delighted they have made the decision to join us in building a party that will work for the people who elect us.
“In joining us at Independent Ireland, they will have the opportunity to represent their communities honestly, respectfully and without fear of censure,” he added.
Michael Fitzmaurice TD, known for his advocacy on behalf of rural Ireland, praised Cllrs Thomas and Walsh for their decision to join Independent Ireland.
“Noel Thomas and Seamus Walsh have long been champions of their communities, and their decision to join Independent Ireland reflects their commitment to listening to their people and representing the interests of those people,” said Dep Fitzmaurice. “As Independent Ireland continues to grow and expand its presence across Ireland, Thomas and Walsh’s addition to the party strengthens our resolve to prioritize integrity, accountability, and real solutions for Irish communities,” he added.
