Ballindine dairy farmer announces candidacy in local elections for Independent Ireland

A dairy farmer and former carpenter has officially declared his candidacy for Independent Ireland in the Claremorris Local Electoral Area (LEA). 

In a statement, Ballindine native Mark Devane said he is ‘deeply concerned about the direction in which the current government is taking our country’ and ‘that it is crucial to speak up for those who may feel silenced or marginalized’.

Mr Devane spent several years working abroad, including in Australia and England, before returning home to pursue a career in dairy farming. 

“My motivation for running for Independent Ireland stems from my commitment to my family and my desire to ensure that future generations are raised with the same morals and values that I hold dear,” said Devane.

“I am deeply concerned about the direction in which the current government is taking our country, and I believe that it is crucial to speak up for those who may feel silenced or marginalized.”

Independent Ireland currently has three sitting Dáil TDs; Michael Fitzmaurice, Richard O’Donoghue and Michael Collins. It is running more than 20 candidates in the June local elections, including seven sitting county councillors.

The party, registered in November, does not operate a whip system. It has promised to freeze carbon taxes, enforce immigration laws, cut funding to non-governmental organisations and reform ‘overcentralised and bureaucratic decision-making processes’. 

Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice expressed his support for Mr Devane’s candidacy.

“Mark Devane’s diverse background and strong commitment to his community make him an excellent candidate for Independent Ireland,” said the Galway-Roscommon TD.

“I am confident that he will be a dedicated advocate for the people of Claremorris, Mark understands the challenges faced by our farmers and communities across rural Ireland, he is an excellent candidate and I am calling on the people of Claremorris to fully support his campaign for election.”

Independent Ireland leader Michael Collins also endorsed Mr Devane’s candidacy, stating: “Mark Devane embodies the values of Independent Ireland and is committed to speaking up for those who may feel overlooked or ignored.”