'It's a full time job': Athlone councillor rules out election bid

Athlone's Cllr Ailish McManus has decided not to contest next month's local elections, saying the role of a county councillor is now effectively a full-time job. 

Cllr McManus, who is the deputy principal of St Mary's National School in Athlone, was co-opted onto the council to fill the vacancy created by Kevin 'Boxer' Moran's election as a TD in 2016. 

In a statement today, she said she would not be putting her name on the ballot at the local elections on May 24. 

"The work of a county councillor is very demanding and has, in essence, become a full time job. My family and work commitments come first," she said. 

"It has been an immense honour and privilege to serve the people of Athlone for the last number of years. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time representing the people and did so to the very best of my ability. 

"I want to thank my family, friends and the public for their support throughout this time. I would especially like to thank the staff of Westmeath County Council who have guided and aided me in carrying out my duties in an effective manner.

"I am also thankful to Minister Kevin 'Boxer' Moran and his staff for all their assistance and support.

"I will continue in my role as councillor until May. Thereafter, I will stay involved with the many community-based projects I have been working on."

She concluded by wishing all of the candidates well in the upcoming election campaign. 

There are currently 25 declared candidates for the 15 council seats on offer in the Moate, Athlone (Westmeath County Council) and Athlone (Roscommon County Council) districts. 

Just two of the declared candidates are female, and both of these are in the five-seater Athlone (Westmeath) district.