BREAKING: First-time Tipperary councillor to make run for Dáil seat in General Election

Independent Councillor John O'Heney has announced that he will contest the upcoming General Election in the Tipperary South constituency.

In June of this year, Cllr O'Heney successfully contested the Cashel-Tipperary Local Elections, topping the poll as a first-time candidate in the area, with an unprecedented 2,534 first-preference votes.

Since the Local Elections, O'Heney has committed to his role as a county councillor, with the same "enthusiasm and energy that he had previously shown throughout his many years of voluntary and community service".

Speaking on his decision to run, Cllr O'Heney said that after careful reflection, he had made the decision to contest the General Election in the Tipperary South constituency.

"I feel a strong sense of responsibility to the people of this community and I feel I have a duty of care to the people of the constituency to provide them with a candidate that will deliver the highest level of representation possible.

"Although I have only been a sitting councillor since June, this decision has not been made lightly.

"It is not a matter of over-reaching, but rather of recognising that while I can accomplish a great deal for the community as a councillor, I can achieve even more as a national representative.

"I am committed to ensuring that the voices of South Tipperary are heard at national level and I am committed to fighting for the interests of this constituency, ensuring that our voice is heard loud and clear in the Dáil.

"The challenges we face, whether in rural development, local business, or social issues, demand effective and dedicated leadership."

"I am eager to take my experience, dedication, and passion for public service to national level, where he I believe that I can make a greater impact for the people of South Tipperary.

"With a proven track record of commitment to my community and a clear vision for the future, I am ready to represent the constituency with integrity, energy, and a deep sense of responsibility.

"I look forward to engaging with voters in the coming months and working together to bring about meaningful, lasting change for the region," added Cllr O'Heney.