I only got 401 votes, but I’m a winner

My glass is half full.

Seven weeks ago, I decided to run in this year’s local elections in the Galway City West ward. Within a week, I had my posters and leaflets printed. I had a team of 30 canvassers. I ran a six-week canvass: erecting 100 posters and visiting 5,000 houses. I began as a political unknown.

Some 270 people thought I was the best person to represent them on city council. By the time I was eliminated, on count five, I had 401 votes, a third of a quota.

I loved the campaign. I annoyed my friends to come out canvassing with me. I learned so much.

I put myself forward on the issues I believe in. It is truly heartening to realise the support there is for me, from people who voted for me to people who were involved in the campaign. I may not have won a seat on Galway City Council, but I have achieved in other ways. It is in no way a defeat.

I wish to congratulate everyone who was elected and to commiserate with those who weren’t. I’m confident the new faces on city council will bring new ideas and a new energy. I wish them the very best of luck.

Tommy Roddy

Independent candidate, West ward

Lower Salthill

Galway