“I was always interested in local politics but remained to be convinced that party politics was best placed to deliver results on a localised level.
“The specific needs of the communities I represent can very often be a secondary consideration for parties whose strategic priorities and wider party interests may lie elsewhere.
“It should come as no secret to anybody that my political outlook would be that of a constitutional republican who passionately believes that the future of this island is best determined by those who live here.
“I am very conscious that the speed of change appears to be unnerving and unsettling for many and to that end there remains an enormous task of persuasion in the years ahead.
“However I believe that a new all-Ireland political dispensation that guarantees equality and respect for all traditions is inevitable at some point.
“As an independent I endeavour to prioritise the needs of my constituents at all times without having to take a party line on any matter.
“I never forget that the seat I occupy in council belongs to the people of Crotlieve and they alone determine whether or not I am delivering for them.
“This lack of party support is the very thing that keeps me sharp and alert to the things that are going on in my area and thankfully this approach has served me well thus far.
“The vast majority of issues I deal with are not directly related to council and being an independent councillor has not disadvantaged me in this regard.
“Within council, however, the committees are allocated on the d’Hondt principle whereby party strength determines who gets what committee positions.
“As a result it can be frustrating to see decisions pushed through by stealth with little to no debate on the matter because the party position has been agreed pre-meeting.
“This approach neuters most attempts to hold council officers to account when they brings recommendations to committee and is not conducive to a positive working relationship between independents and officers when we are the only ones asking the awkward questions.
“In 2014 I got elected to the last seat in my DEA by one vote, yet by the next election in 2019 I had topped the poll and was first across the line in Crotlieve DEA.
“This didn’t happen by accident, rather by hard work and endeavour on a daily basis for my constituents and to have that record of delivery recognised and rewarded by those very people continues to be a very humbling experience.
“I don’t pretend to have all the answers and I don’t always get the desired outcome.
"However, I have never ignored an issue that was brought to me and I find that people are generally appreciative of the efforts I go to on their behalf and it’s that willingness and ability to make a difference for that individual, family, club or community which inspires me to continue to serve.”
