I have decided that I can best serve the interests of the people of the Galway East constituency by going into opposition.
I do not believe that the Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and Green Party Programme for Government will deliver for my constituents.
As an Independent TD, having had the honour of being elected for the constituency since 2016, I have a clear understanding of the issues affecting the people.
The protection of family farms, regional development, jobs for our young people, improved childcare and a stimulus package to reboot our small and medium enterprises are all issues to which I will hold the new Government accountable.
I agree that we need a stable Government to lead us through the COVID-19 crisis. It needs to be done in a manner that is caring and treats people equally.
I will watch closely how this Government deals with inequality, including the current unfair conditions faced by our School Secretaries and Community Employment Supervisors.
Development of regional infrastructure is imperative, along with the regeneration of our rural towns and villages and expansion of our public transport network, including the Western Rail Corridor.
I wish the Government well and look forward to the new Dáil term, where I will keep Galway East firmly on the political agenda.