Independent Ireland announce new candidate in Limerick election

THE NEW political party founded by Independent Dail TDs Richard O’Donoghue and Michael Collins has announced its first local election candidate for the metropolitan district.

Ruth Clarke, a teacher who lives in Ashbrooke is to run for Independent Ireland on the northside at the election in June.

It’s her second attempt to get elected onto Limerick City and County Council, following an unsuccessful bid in 2019 as a non-party candidate.

She said: “I love our country, I love our culture, and I have been so discouraged at how this government has let the people down.

"As a mother of adult children who cannot get a mortgage, no matter how hard they work, I felt it was time to stand up for their future and join Richard O’Donoghue and the rest of the TDs and candidates in building a party that will truly work for the people of this country.”

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Ms Clarke said her campaign will focus on key issues impacting her community, including housing, healthcare, support for mothers, and women, as well as neurodiverse individuals.

On top of this, crime prevention, responsible immigration policies, and support for the agricultural and fishing sectors are on her priority list.

Mr O’Donoghue, who knows Ms Clarke from chilhood, described her as “a courageous, dedicated and hardworking woman who exemplifies everything that our party stands for.”