Current Cathaoirleach of County Galway, Councillor Liam Carroll, is to leave Fine Gael after being snubbed in the upcoming local elections.
Despite expressing a wish to again stand for Fine Gael in the Athenry/Oranmore district in June, the party has allegedly refused to add him to the ticket.
It's extremely unusual given his position as Mayor of the county - but Councillor Carroll says it's not clear why.
But Councillor Carroll says he'll be running as an independent, and he will not be renewing his Fine Gael membership next month.
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Speaking to Galway Talks, Councillor Carroll said it was a big decision to run as an independent - but he wants to continue serving his community.
