Independent Ireland welcomes Cllr Bill Clear as 24th elected Councillor

Independent Ireland welcomes Cllr Bill Clear as 24th elected Councillor

Independent Ireland Leader Deputy Michael Collins has announced that Kildare-based councillor Bill Clear has joined the party, becoming its 24th elected councillor nationwide.

Ahead of Cllr Clear's official launch today at Naas Racecourse, Deputy Collins said he was “delighted” to welcome Cllr Clear, describing him as “a man of integrity, experience and deep commitment to his community”.

“Bill has served the people of the Naas Municipal District with distinction and dedication. His decision to join Independent Ireland reflects the growing momentum behind a party that stands for common sense, accountability and fairness in Irish politics,” Deputy Collins said.

“Across the country, people are looking for representation that puts communities before party lines. Bill’s record in public service and his practical approach to politics align perfectly with the values at the heart of Independent Ireland.”

Deputy Collins confirmed that Cllr Clear has been appointed the party’s spokesperson on Defence and the Equestrian Industry, reflecting his professional background and strong connection to Kildare’s equine sector.

“As a former Merchant Navy Captain, Bill brings unique insight to matters of national security and maritime policy,” Deputy Collins said. “His leadership within the equestrian sector also highlights how vital that industry is — not only to Kildare, but to Ireland’s wider economy and heritage.”

Cllr Clear said the decision to join the party was made “after careful thought and reflection” and that Independent Ireland’s principles mirror the issues he has long championed.

“I see the struggles people face every day — families trying to afford homes, pensioners denied medical cards, people with disabilities battling needless barriers, and working families excluded from so-called affordable housing,” Cllr Clear said.  "Two areas of massive importance to this region are the equine industry and the defence forces and I will be a strong advocate for both in my dual role as spokesperson on those portfolios"

“Independent Ireland is a party that believes in practical solutions and in restoring honesty and accountability to Irish politics. It’s about delivering real change for ordinary people.”

Independent Ireland's MEP for the region Ciaran Mullooly also welcomed the announcement saying "Cllr Clear has been a champion for the people of Kildare for many years, he has a clear vision for how he wants to deliver for the people and working alongside Cllr Ger Dunne in the area, Independent Ireland has two councillors who will continue to work every day to deliver for Co. Kildare.  It is is an area of my constituency that is of huge importance, and I look forward to working with Bill to help deliver solutions for the people of Naas and surrounding areas of Co. Kildare at a European level"

Deputy Collins added that Cllr Clear’s decision to join Independent Ireland “further strengthens the party’s representation at local government level and its ability to stand up for communities across the country.”

Independent Ireland now has 24 elected Councillors serving across Ireland and is continuing to build towards the next general election with a focus on delivering fair, practical and community-based politics.