Lord Mayor confirmed he is contesting next month's council elections

The Lord Mayor of Cork has confirmed he is seeking reelection for a seat on Cork City Council.

Cllr Mick Finn says that while he is ‘behind the curve’ in terms of preparations for the local elections, he believes it is important to put his name forward.

Cllr Finn, who has served two terms as an independent member of the council, was involved in the negotiations for the extension of the city boundary which will be enacted from June 1 following the elections on May 24.

“As someone involved in the process, I felt obliged to run for the expanded council even though my duties and full diary as Lord Mayor militate against campaigning,” he said. 

“I have a team of around 50, family and friends, going out for me and I try to get out when I can. I will remain as Lord Mayor beyond polling day until the first meeting of the new council on June 7 and I feel it’s more important to complete this job properly.” 

Cllr Finn, who will run for one of the six seats in an enlarged City South Central Local Electoral Area, said what will be, will be and the electorate will decide.

“It is tough to balance work commitments with public duties and this is why so many city councillors are stepping away. I obviously hope to be re-elected in what will likely be my last election.” 

He thanked all his helpers for their efforts. “Without my friends and family, I would not get out on the trail at all...thanks to them all. I also congratulate all the outgoing councillors for their work and intending candidates putting their names forward: the public platform is not easy.”