Independent Ireland reveals its general election candidate for Limerick City

PATRICKSWELL businesswoman Esther Aherne has become the latest candidate to declare they are running in the general election.

Ms Aherne, a health and safety consultant by profession, will be the standard bearer for Independent Ireland in the Limerick City constituency.

She contested City West at the local election, and was the final candidate who failed to win a seat in the seven-seater ward.

Now she will bid to secure one of the four seats on offer in Limerick City.

“I’m passionate about making a real difference for the people of Limerick,” Ms Aherne said.

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“Whether it’s addressing the housing crisis, advocating for better health services, or ensuring everyone in our community has access to the support they need, I’m committed to working tirelessly for every resident,” she added.

Ms Aherne founded her own health and safety consultancy in 2015, and also holds qualifications in training, wellbeing, fitness, disability, and mental health.

“From the housing crisis and long waiting lists in hospitals, to the elderly needing support, I understand these issues deeply because I live them alongside my community,” she added.

Independent Ireland leader, Cork TD Michael Collins said: “Esther is the kind of leader Limerick needs. Her vast experience and understanding of the challenges faced by her community make her the perfect representative for the people of Limerick City.”

Richard O’Donoghue, general secretary of Independent Ireland, who is seeking re-election for Independent Ireland in Limerick County added: “Esther has shown time and time again that she has the determination and the vision to create meaningful change. She has a deep understanding of the needs of the people of Limerick and will be a strong voice for them in the Dáil. We are excited to have her represent Independent Ireland in Limerick City.”

Mr O’Donoghue said Ms Aherne will campaign to “deliver meaningful change and common sense policies for the people of Limerick. I have every confidence that Esther is the candidate to deliver that change and we are delighted to have her on board for the general election campaign.”

Rumours continue to swirl that An Taoiseach Simon Harris is to call a November election, despite repeatedly saying his government will go full-term.

There are now 12 people set to contest the general election in Limerick city.

Ms Aherne is joined by outgoing TDs Maurice Quinlivan (Sinn Fein), Willie O’Dea (Fianna Fail), Kieran O’Donnell (Fine Gael) and Brian Leddin (Green Party).

Also running are councillors Elisa O’Donovan (Social Democrats), Frankie Daly (Independent), Conor Sheehan (Labour), Sarah Beasley (Aontu).

The Civil War parties are both running an additional candidate here - Dee Ryan for Fianna Fail and Senator Maria Byrne for Fine Gael.

And Melanie Cleary of the Mid-West Hospital Campaign has also declared.