O'Brien announces he will run as Independent candidate in upcoming general election

SOUTH Mayo Councillor Patsy O'Brien has announced he'll be running as an Independent candidate in the general election later this year.

The Robeen man, who has consistently returned poll-topping performances in local elections, announced today that he is throwing his hat into the ring.

He explained his decision: “Since being elected to Mayo County Council last June I have been inundated with requests to do so.

“I am looking forward to the huge challenge ahead in the coming months.”

South Mayo could yet turn into a political hotbed with nearby Shrule MEP Maria Walsh being widely tipped to run as a possible successor to Michael Ring.

It would be a no lose situation for Walsh, who would remain in the European Parliament in the event of not being elected to the Dáil.

* More on the story in tomorrow's print edition