Bradley Bytes – a sort of political column with Dara Bradley

Noel Grealish has rebuffed overtures to join the country’s newest party, Independent Ireland.

The Galway West TD confirmed to Bradley Bytes that he would remain independent – despite efforts by Michael Collins, leader of the fledgling party, to sign him up.

Noeleen confirmed he had received an email from Collins – no phone call or face-to-face approach – asking him to meet about joining the ranks of Independent Ireland.

But the Carnmore man told him straight out, he had no interest in meeting or joining the new party.

Though they are friendly, and know each other socially, Noel Grealish said he would have more leverage and influence on Government by remaining an Independent than linking up with Collins.

Previously, the former and final Progressive Democrat leader, had been approached to join Fianna Fáil but the in-demand politician says he’s staying solo.

Although, he may not be solo for long! Tomás Grealish, his brother, has announced he will contest for a seat on Galway County Council, representing Athenry/Oranmore, as a replacement for Jim Cuddy, who is retiring at the next Local Election.

Meanwhile, Independent Ireland has made some inroads in Galway. One of its three Oireachtas members is Roscommon-Galway TD, Michael Fitzmaurice.

It recruited Noel Larkin, Galway City East councillor, and Declan Kelly, a county councillor in Portumna this week. And controversial Oughterard councillor Seamus Walsh, who has resigned from Fianna Fáil, has also batted his eyelids in its direction.

(Photo: Independent TD Noel Grealish with his brother, Tomás, and Cllr Jim Cuddy, who is retiring at the next Local Election. Tomás is aiming to replace Cllr Cuddy on Galway County Council, and is seeking election in the Athenry/Oranmore area)
This is a shortened preview version of this column. For more Bradley Bytes, see the March 22 edition of the Galway City Tribune. You can buy a digital edition HERE.