Limerick-based animal activist launches bid to get Áras nomination

ASHFORD man Gerben Uunk, who contested both the Mayoral and General Elections last year, has set his sights on an even bigger prize.

The Dutch national, who is co-founder and secretary of the Party for Animal Welfare, is seeking nominations to run in next month’s Presidential election.

Mr Uunk - a naturalised Irish citizen - is no stranger to elections.

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Locally, he ran in last summer’s election to become Limerick’s first ever directly elected mayor, securing 788 votes and making it to the third count.

In the local election, taking place on the same day, he bid to win a seat in the Newcastle West area, polling 112 first preferences, and also bowing out at count number three.

He followed that up in November last when he sought a Dail seat in County Limerick.

Here, he went one better, exiting the contest at the fourth count, having earned 254 votes.

In 2014, he tried to get on Clare County Council.

He has also contested European Parliament elections in the Netherlands.

He has at least one successful election to his name, when he won a seat to Amsterdam’s local authority during the 1990s.

Asked why he wants to become President of Ireland, he said: “I advocate for equal rights for every living being in Ireland. In my modest opinion, the Irish President has a responsibility to unite everyone in an inclusive manner. I believe that the rights of all living beings ought to be protected in the Irish Constitution.”

He also pointed out that he stands against racism and hatred directed at immigrants. Locally, he feels Shannon Airport should stop hosting US troops.

To stand in the October 24 election, Mr Uunk needs the backing of at least 20 Oireachtas members or four local authorities.