Independent TDs will have an influential role after the next general election but they must be focused on taking account of both national and constituency concerns.
This was the message from Mr Michael Lowry TD as he confirmed his candidacy for the next election as an Independent to hundreds of supporters last night at the Ragg, Thurles.
"At the moment my only priority is to protect my home political base and to ensure my re-election as an Independent at the next election. I haven't even thought or remotely considered any other future political decisions until and when or if they arrive."
However, Mr Lowry is clear about one thing. "It is important that Independents, rather than being strictly constituency orientated, have a strategic policy stance. Independents have the opportunity to influence governments about the decision of government."
Mr Lowry's departure from Fine Gael did not leave him in the political wilderness after the 1997 general election. Surprising many political commentators, he claimed the first seat in the three-seat Tipperary North constituency with over 12,000 first preference votes.
At the celebration of his 21 years in politics last night, he told supporters: "The outcome of the next general election will be extremely close, with Independents having a major role to play in the formation of the next government. Should that situation come about, I will ensure that this constituency will be firmly on the agenda in the preparation of the new programme for government.
"I have learnt the consequences of having to deal with my mistakes. The first step I took in dealing with them was being honest about the fact that I made them. Whatever the reasons - inexperience, over-eagerness, misguided enthusiasm - I had to accept responsibility."
Despite the massive support he enjoys he says he will enter any future election on a "cautiously optimistic note".