Arklow Councillor Mary McDonald has decided to quit Sinn Fein and run as an Independent in the upcoming local elections.
“I was restricted in what I could do or say at council level because of the agendas and self-serving interests of others. This decision is not based on any factor relating to Sinn Fein’s national policies, but rather local administration indifference, which I feel is driving the parties experienced and talented members away.
As a political activist I need to maintain my ability to agree, criticise or oppose, if I am to advocate effectively for the people of South Wicklow.
I want to continue to work with those in all political parties and none to find common ground, to put partisanship aside and to achieve real solutions to the challenges ahead. Good ideas should take precedence over any political ideology.
I want to amplify the people of South Wicklow’s voices and not be gagged by political middlemen.
As such I shall be responsible directly and in the first and last instances to the people of South Wicklow.
I believe my actions will bring my affiliation into alignment with how I served and will continue to serve, the people of the county”
