GAA coach and community barber picked by Sinn Féin for vacant Wicklow County Council seat
The Wicklow PeopleA long‑time community activist and GAA coach has been selected by Sinn Féin for co-option to Wicklow County Council, following the resignation of councillor Dermot “Daisy” O’Brien in January.
John Ward, who lives in Bray, will represent the Bray West area, continuing a line of local republican representation that stretches back more than a decade.
The decision was made at a party selection convention last week, where Mr Ward received unanimous support from local members.
His appointment marks the latest chapter in a political transition for the party triggered by O’Brien’s departure earlier this year, after years of service to the people of Bray and the wider Wicklow community.
John, a lifelong republican and a member of the Mulvey Cumann, has lived in the Oldcourt Estate for three decades with his wife Claire and their family. Well known across Bray West, he is said to have built a reputation as a grounded, approachable figure with deep roots in local life.
Much of his public profile comes from his long association with Bray Emmets GAA Club, where he has been involved as both a player and mentor. A passionate hurler, he has served as player‑manager of the club’s junior team since 2012, guiding teams to multiple championship successes. His work has extended beyond the pitch, contributing to hurling development squads and committees aimed at strengthening the sport at grassroots level.
In 2025, Bray Emmets recognised his decades of commitment by naming him Clubman of the Year.
Outside of sport, John has spent 40 years working as a barber, including more than two decades serving the Bray community. Through this role, he has developed close relationships with residents. Supporters say this experience gives him a unique insight into the everyday issues facing families in the area.
Speaking after his selection, John said he was “proud and honoured” to be chosen to take on the role previously held by O’Brien.
“I have seen first hand the commitment he brought to the people of Bray and I am determined to continue that work,” he said.
“I have always believed that Sinn Féin reflects my values, standing for a united Ireland and putting communities first. I am committed to listening, engaging, and delivering for local people. I want to ensure that the voices of Bray residents are heard and acted upon.”
His comments reflect a focus on continuity, with an emphasis on maintaining the level of engagement and responsiveness that O’Brien was known for during his time on the council.
Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow, John Brady, paid tribute once again to O’Brien, who stepped down after serving as a councillor since 2018.
“I again want to thank Dermot for his service to the people of Wicklow,” Brady said.
“He has been an outstanding public representative who served his constituents with dedication, integrity and an unwavering work ethic. He brought enormous commitment to his role and approached every issue with diligence, compassion and a deep sense of responsibility.”
During his time on the council, O’Brien was widely regarded as a hardworking and accessible representative, known for his involvement in community initiatives and his advocacy on local issues ranging from housing to youth services.
Deputy Brady also welcomed John’s selection, saying he looked forward to working closely with him in the months ahead.
“Through his lifelong involvement in local sport and the broader community, John brings a deep understanding of the everyday challenges facing families throughout Wicklow, and will always stand up and fight for those communities,” he said.
“He will be a strong addition to the Sinn Féin team in Wicklow, and will work tirelessly for the people of Bray.”
John’s background in community work and sport is expected to shape his priorities as he takes on the role, with a particular focus on youth engagement, local facilities, and supporting families facing cost‑of‑living pressures.
He is expected to take up his seat at the May meeting of Wicklow County Council, where he will join fellow Sinn Féin representative Warren O’ Toole in advancing the party’s local agenda.
Ward’s co‑option comes during a notable period of turnover in the Bray Municipal District. In early 2025, Aoife Flynn Kennedy, a Fine Gael councillor and former Cathaoirleach, resigned from her seat citing personal reasons. Her departure was the first major change in the district’s representation in this election cycle and required Fine Gael to initiate its own co‑option process, which led to the appointment of Ned Whelan.
O’Brien’s resignation earlier this year marked the second such vacancy. His decision to step down was described as a difficult but necessary choice as he moved to take up a role in the youth work sector. His departure was widely acknowledged as a significant moment for Sinn Féin in Wicklow, given his visibility and long-standing involvement in community initiatives.