Independent Councillor Mary Roche has joined the Social Democrats.
The former Mayor of Waterford made the announcement on Deise Today this morning.
The party are seeking to expand their profile in Waterford as they seek further balanced regional development in Ireland, and see Cllr. Roche as an ideal fit to bring their message forward.
Cllr. Roche told Deise Today that she's delighted to have joined the party.
"I want to inform the people of Waterford - that I am as of today, joining the Social Democrats. I'm leaving my independent days behind after 20 years. It's a big decision and one that I didn't take lightly. I've met with Catherine Murphy and Roisin Shortall on a number of occasions in Dublin and spoken to their representatives a number of times - I'm very happy."
Party co-leader Roisin Shortall told the programme that they have been monitoring Cllr. Roche for some time and they have been impressed by her work on the ground in Waterford.
"We've been watching Mary for a few years now and we've been very impressed by her. We have contacted her over recent months and we are absolutely delighted that she has decided to join us - we have been looking to expand our base in Waterford for some time."
