Local school teacher to run in Dublin West

Dublin People 22 Nov 2015
Local school teacher to run in Dublin West

A PRIMARY school teacher in Blanchardstown has announced he’s standing as an independent candidate for Dublin West in next year’s general election.

TJ Clare, who teaches at Scoil Bhríde BNS in Blanchardstown Village, unsuccessfully contested last year’s local elections in Castleknock.

He was also a leader of the Yes Equality campaign in Dublin West and has been involved in the Right2Water campaign in the constituency.

“I believe I stand out from other independents,” he said.

“I have not left any party due to in-party fighting or disagreements, nor do I intend to join a party.”

Originally from Dun Laoghaire, Mr Clare graduated from St Patrick’s College of Education, Drumcondra, with a Bachelor of Education Degree and has lived in Dublin West since 2008,

He describes himself as a ‘left-independent’ candidate.

Dublin West is a four-seat constituency and sitting TDs include Tánaiste Joan Burton and Minister for Health, Leo Varadkar. The other two seats are held by Joe Higgins and Ruth Coppinger of the Socialist Party.

Deputy Higgins won’t be contesting the general election and Varadkar, Burton and Coppinger will be expected to hold their seats. Leading candidates for the fourth seat include Cllr Jack Chambers (FF), Cllr Paul Donnelly (SF) Cllr David McGuinness (Ind), Cllr Roderic O’Gorman (GP) and Senator Catherine Noone (FG).

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