Independent Ireland is proud to announce that Cllr. Noel Thomas,has been officially selected to run for Galway West in the next general election. Having represented the people of Conamara for over a decade, Thomas is ready to bring his deep understanding of local issues and his commitment to his community to the national stage.

Noel Thomas has served the people of Conamara tirelessly, topping the poll in the recent local elections in June 2024 and narrowly missing election on the first count. Under his leadership, Independent Ireland secured three seats in the Conamara electoral area, making the party the largest grouping in the region.

Discussing his candidacy, Noel Thomas stated:

"I have been active in my community for over 25 years, and I know the challenges facing the people of Galway West because I live with these issues every day. Galway has been overlooked for too long. We haven’t had a senior representative in government for decades, and it shows. Successive governments have failed us, driving our people away from their hometowns and into overcrowded cities. This must change. We need a reset for Galway West."

Thomas's campaign will focus on rural development, advocating for policies that empower local communities, support small businesses, and enhance infrastructure. His vision includes ensuring families can stay in their local communities, access necessary services, and live with dignity in a region that reflects the beauty and heritage of Galway West.

He continued:

"Independent Ireland and I believe in empowering people. We will fight for increased funding for Udarás na Gaeltachta and Local Enterprise Offices, and we want to see real investment in TG4, including giving it an independent news service. Our rural areas can no longer be neglected. We must invest in community facilities, housing, transport, and support for farmers. We want immigration policies that benefit our society and escalate the building of essential infrastructure like the Outer Bypass. Galway West deserves a representative who will fight for a better quality of life for all."

Michael Collins TD, Leader of Independent Ireland, endorsed Noel Thomas's candidacy:

"Noel has been a dedicated advocate for Conamara and the wider Galway region for many years. His experience and understanding of the issues that matter most to the people in this region makes him the perfect candidate to represent Galway West in the Dáil. Noel’s commitment to improving local infrastructure, supporting rural communities, and addressing the challenges of housing and healthcare align perfectly with Independent Ireland’s core principles. I fully support his candidacy and know he will be a voice for change."

Backing his colleague, Michael Fitzmaurice TD also expressed his strong support for Thomas:

"Noel Thomas is a proven leader and a true representative of the people. He knows the struggles that rural communities face every day and has always fought for them. I have no doubt that he will bring the same determination to the national stage, ensuring that Galway West finally gets the attention and investment it needs. His passion for rural development and his hands-on approach make him the ideal candidate.  I would ask the people of Galway West to get behind Noel's campaign, he is one of the hardest working councillors on Galway County Council and he is a man of real integrity and he will bring that work ethic and integrity to the national stage to represent the people of Galway West"

Noel Thomas's Priorities for Galway West:

1. Rural Development: Advocating for more investment in rural infrastructure, local enterprise, and community facilities to allow families to remain in their hometowns.

2. Housing & Immigration: Pushing for policies that provide safe and sustainable housing while reforming immigration to address the many issues in our current system and better integrate those contributing to society.

3. Infrastructure Improvements: Prioritising the building of the Outer Bypass and improving roads across Conamara and Galway West.

4. Support for Farmers: Ensuring farm families have a voice in shaping policies that affect their livelihoods.

5. Investment in Public Services: Calling for greater funding for healthcare, education, and other critical services to support the people of Galway West.

As the general election approaches, Noel Thomas and Independent Ireland are committed to offering real solutions for Galway West and the rest of Ireland.