Kate O'Connell snubs Simon Harris for election solo run as she can't excuse 'wastage of public money'

Kate O'Connell, a former Fine Gael TD, emphasized, "I have no desire to run as a sweeper for any candidate," clearly asserting her commitment to an independent campaign rather than aligning with any established party. This decision reveals her desire to maintain autonomy in her political endeavors.

O'Connell mentioned, "There is residual animosity towards me in Fine Gael," indicating that her past experiences with the party may have influenced her decision to separate and run as an Independent.

Expressing her stance on financial support, O'Connell stated, "I am against one-off payments to families," which illustrates her policy perspective and differentiation from traditional party platforms.

Read at Independent