Niall Speak, owner of The Eco Basket on Main Street in Strabane, has announced his candidacy as an independent for Derry City and Strabane District Council. The election is scheduled for May 2027.

Speak plans to stand in the Sperrin District Electoral Area. This area includes Strabane town and rural parts around Artigarvan, Ballymagorry and Donemana. Three independent councillors currently represent the ward: Jason Barr, Raymond Barr and Paul Gallagher.

Speak cited frustration with party politics blocking community progress as his reason for running. He aims to prioritize Strabane's needs without party constraints.

His decision followed encouragement from local residents and discussions with family. Speak has criticized council spending practices and called for rates system reform.

He has also highlighted pressures on local businesses and the potential to develop Strabane's tourism sector. As an independent, Speak intends to advocate for small businesses and community support across age groups.