Independent South Dublin County Councillor Eoin O Broin has announced that he is joining the Social Democrats.
The Clondalkin councillor believes he will be able to "accomplish more for my local constituents" with the party.
He said: “My primary goal in politics is delivering change – in improved public services, the environment and housing – so the Social Democrats were the obvious choice for me.
“Ireland has undergone a lot of change during the pandemic and, as we begin to emerge from that phase, there is an opportunity to reshape our society. To do so, we must learn the lessons of Covid.
"This means investing in threadbare public services; finally tackling the housing crisis; ensuring workers have access to remote working and an improved work-life balance; investing in public transport; and acting now to prevent a climate crisis.
"As a member of South Dublin County Council, I want to help build a social democratic block that can further this agenda and direct budgetary and zoning decisions accordingly."
SocDems co-leader Catherine Murphy added: “Eoin’s background, particularly his PhD on energy efficiency in homes and his experience working abroad, means he has a real contribution to make on the most important issues now facing the country – namely, housing and the climate crisis.
"A lot of change, in society, begins at local level and I am delighted that Eoin has joined the Social Democrats to fight for change from within the party."
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