Boxer to run as independent

Poll-topping local councillor Kevin 'Boxer' Moran is set to contest the next general election as an independent, after his dramatic move to quit Fianna Fáil this week. In a statement, Moran said he had not taken the decision to leave Fianna Fáil lightly. “It reflects wider discontent with the performance of the party in Government and the current mood of despair within the constituency and the country as a whole.†He confirmed to the Westmeath Independent that he now intended to run as an independent candidate in the forthcoming general election. He said he believed he could win a Dáil seat as an independent and would fight “tooth and nail†for Longford/Westmeath. Announcing his decision to depart Fianna Fáil, he said: “I have worked tirelessly as a local representative in Athlone and Westmeath since 1999. I am acutely conscious of the serious concerns and problems facing people on the ground, in a very difficult economic climate.†“Regretfully, the party and the Government, at a national level, do not appear to realise the extent of the fear and pain experienced by ordinary families in these extraordinary times. The world has changed and politicians need to recognise that and adapt to meet the challenges posed by our new circumstances, in the best interests of the electorate. “For this reason, I feel that I can best serve my constituents in the future as an independent councillor. I pledge to continue working on their behalf, to the best of my abilities, for as long as I hold their mandate.†Moran topped the poll in the Athlone electoral area of Westmeath County Council in the 2009 local elections with a whopping 1,771 first preference votes. In a tense and tight race for the Fianna Fáil nomination for the last general election, he was edged out by a handful of votes in a dramatic convention in Mullingar by then Senator Mary O'Rourke, who subsequently regained her Dáil seat. In December, Boxer opted not to seek the Fianna Fáil nomination for the coming general election citing his frustration at the paper cumainn in the party. Fianna Fáil at a convention early in the New Year chose Deputy Mary O'Rourke, Longford-based Deputy Peter Kelly and North Westmeath Cllr Robert Troy on a three-strong ticket. Now, Cllr Moran's decision to enter the election race as an independent along with Deputy O'Rourke, Senator Nicky McFadden and possibly Cllr Paul Hogan of Sinn Féin will ensure a hugely competitive electoral battle in Athlone and South Westmeath. It's understood Moran kept news of his impending resignation from Fianna Fáil closely guarded in recent days - and the decision is sure to spark shock and surprise among some sections of the Fianna Fáil party. Hugely popular due to his work rate, Cllr Moran has been active in a plethora of community organisations and events. Married to Michelle, and a father-of-two, Boxer resides in Cornamagh, Athlone, and is the owner of a local taxi company.