Independent TDs plan post-election alliance

THERE is a growing consensus among Independent TDs that a post-election alliance should be formed in order to maximise their bargaining power and target a cabinet position, it was claimed yesterday.

Independent Mayo TD Gerry Cowley said many of his fellow Independents believed their collective bargaining power should be used over local issues arising in health, education and community infrastructure.

Ministerial portfolios in health, enterprise and employment, and environment would also be targeted in any post-election negotiations with the current Government parties or the alternative coalition, he said.

“I honestly believe that Independent TDs will hold the balance of power after this election and will be there with their list of constituent demands. Whatever party chooses to agree to our demands and to incorporate our policies into their agenda will receive our support,” said Mr Cowley.

However, he ruled out forming such an alliance before the election. “People will hold their powder dry until after the election. But there is an informal consensus there,” he said.

Having been approached by all the major political parties in recent years to abandon his Independent status and join their ranks, Mr Cowley said he was more convinced than ever that Independent TDs are becoming increasingly important and popular.

Speaking at the launch of the election campaign of Meath East candidate AJ Cahill yesterday, Mr Cowley predicted that the 13 sitting Independent TDs would be returned, in addition to several new Independent candidates.