Connemara councillor confirms bid for Catherine Connolly’s vacant Galway West seat in the Dáil
Independent Galway County Councillor Thomas Welby has formally announced his intention to contest the open Galway West Dáil seat in this year’s by-election.
The Connemara-based councillor, who has 22 years of experience as a public representative, said his campaign will focus on resolving ongoing traffic congestion and housing pressures in the region.
Cllr Welby has voiced strong support for the N6 Galway Ring Road, stating that the city has waited long enough for An Coimisiún Pleanála to bring the planning process to a conclusion.
“Galway City cannot be stuck in permanent gridlock,” he said.
If elected, Cllr Welby would succeed outgoing TD Catherine Connolly, who was a vocal opponent of the Ring Road project.
On housing, Cllr Welby criticised current Government decisions and funding allocations for affordable housing schemes, arguing that there is insufficient oversight to ensure developments are adequately funded and aligned with existing demand.
He called for reviews to assess whether housing schemes are meeting local needs.
Cllr Welby confirmed he will run as an independent candidate, stating that he wants to be directly accountable to the people of Galway West rather than any political party.
“I am running to be a strong independent advocate for the people of Galway West,” he said. “Beyond housing and traffic, Galway West faces growing challenges in healthcare, rural isolation, planning delays, the rising cost of living, and the potential reduction in food standards. These pressures are forcing people out of their communities and placing enormous strain on families, farmers, and small businesses.”