Independent Councillor Joe Kelly has criticised major political parties for “attempting to block” nominations in the Presidential election, describing such tactics as “anti-democratic” and “short-sighted.”

His comments followed Waterford City and County Council’s decision to back Independent Cllr. Kieran McCarthy as a candidate.

Speaking after the council meeting in Dungarvan, Kelly said he was disappointed with all County Councils that have opted not to nominate anyone:

“I think that was short-sighted and I believe fundamentally in my heart that it’s anti-democratic… shutting down the democratic process is not appropriate. If it was to take root around Ireland, it’s really, really a bad sign for democracy.”

Kelly also criticised the way Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael councillors “coalesced” to block nominations:

“For the large parties today, like Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael, who coalesce together to try and block anybody being nominated, irrespective of the merits of that individual, I think that’s not good for democracy. And I think it’s a bad sign.”

Despite these concerns, he praised the candidates who pitched to councillors:

“What they said came from their heart. They all stood up well to questioning. I would congratulate all of them for being prepared to put their name forward and be questioned and examined by councillors here.”

Kelly welcomed Waterford Council’s approach, which saw 15 councillors vote in favour of proposing a candidate, 11 against, and then a subsequent vote where Kieran McCarthy received 11 votes in favour, 10 against, and five abstentions. On the result, he said:

“We cannot allow shutting down the democratic process. Waterford Council stood up, in my view, for democracy. That was great. That was perfect.”

“I congratulate Kieran McCarthy and I wish him the best going forward. Indeed, I wish everybody the best of luck in their campaigns.”

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