A group of Independent TDs and Councillors have agreed a set of principles ahead of the next election.

TDs Shane Ross, Finian McGrath, Michael Fitzmaurice and John Halligan hosted a meeting of around 100 people in Tullamore today.

Around 60 sitting councillors were among the crowd at today’s meeting in the Bridge Hotel.

Organisers are eager to stress that this is not a new party however. Shane Ross explains why they have decided to avoid that route:

The group say their priorities include the abolition of the party whip, protecting the vulnerable and the revival of rural Ireland.

They also want to strip politicians of their power to make political appointments.

Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice outlines some of his personal aims for the alliance to tackle:

A name for the alliance is expected in due course.