Limerick businessman to run in local elections as independent candidate

Ryan O'Rourke, 28 Mar

A NEWLY-declared independent candidate in June’s local elections is

hoping to promote west Limerick as a tourist destination.

Jim Barrett, 48, is from Barna and says he intends to put himself

forward in the Newcastle West local election area (LEA).

He says he wants towns and villages to be supported, and wants to

welcome migrants into the community.

The father of two, and local business owner, has spent the past 25

years working for Irish Rail.

In 2011, he also founded Pedal Pursuits, a bike hire facility for those

traversing the Great Southern Limerick Greenway.

“I have always had a great belief that west Limerick has great

potential as a tourist destination and because of this, I took an

active role in promoting the area. This included joining West Limerick

Tourism where I was voted in as chairman,” Mr Barret said.

READ MORE: Elections 2024: Date confirmed for Limerick to go the polls

in June

If elected, Mr Barrett says he would prioritise supporting farmers,

small business owners, and towns and villages.

He would also look for a greater garda presence in rural towns and

villages, and hopes to install local pride in the community.

Finally, Mr Barrett believes that “local representatives should be

contactable, helpful, respectful, supportive and most of all have your

back no matter how big or small your issue.”