Dublin: With just 21 days remaining until election day, Ireland is now fully immersed in election fervor. Prime Minister and Fine Gael leader Simon Harris returned from a European Council meeting in Hungary and promptly met with President Michael D. Higgins to confirm the election date and formally request the dissolution of parliament. Across the country, candidates wasted no time, with campaign posters appearing early yesterday morning in anticipation of the official announcement.
Prime Minister Harris, launching a 22-day campaign, committed himself to the “voice and vote of the people” as the source of his strength. After thanking his cabinet, he began his campaign in Dublin’s Blanchardstown area, meeting with local Fine Gael candidates and former Prime Minister Leo Varadkar.
Fianna Fáil and Sinn Féin Outline Election Goals
Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin kicked off his campaign alongside party candidates outside Leinster House, identifying housing and the cost of living as the central issues in this election. Martin stated emphatically that he would not partner with Sinn Féin in a coalition government. In response, Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald launched her party’s campaign by promising affordable housing initiatives, a daily childcare cap of €10, and a pledge to abolish the Universal Social Charge (USC). She declared that “no party is untouchable,” urging voters to replace Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael with a Sinn Féin-led government.
Labour, People Before Profit, and Social Democrats Mobilise
Labour Party leader Ivana Bacik began her campaign by emphasising policies to address the housing crisis, vowing that her party would prioritise housing solutions if elected. Richard Barrett, leader of People Before Profit-Solidarity, unfurled a massive banner across Dublin’s Ha’penny Bridge, calling for an end to “100 years of Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael rule.” Meanwhile, Social Democrats leader Holly Cairns used social media to amplify her message that the current government has distanced itself from the people, signalling a new direction is needed.
Smaller Parties and Independents Enter the Race
Green Party leader Roderic O’Gorman launched his campaign at Clonsilla Railway Station, while Aontú leader Peadar Tóibín, contesting from Westmeath, reiterated his party’s status as “the sole opposition” in the outgoing Dáil.
Election Details and Voter Information
Ireland’s 3.5 million eligible voters include Irish and British citizens, as well as anyone on the voter register. Those wishing to be added to the electoral roll have until Tuesday to register, either online at checktheregister.ie or in person at their local authority. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. on November 29.
Candidates for the general election must be 21 or older and listed on the electoral register in their constituency. Independent candidates not affiliated with a political party must secure the support of 30 voters from their constituency to be nominated. Nomination submissions are open until noon on Saturday, November 16, with a withdrawal deadline of noon on November 18.
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