The 2024 Election Update: Key Takeaways
1. Nationalist Wave Sweeps Dublin
The rise of nationalist sentiment in Ireland was evident as Malachy Steenson, an Independent candidate endorsed by the National Party, secured a seat on Dublin City Council. With a strong anti-immigration stance, Steenson declared that “the revolution has begun,” signaling a shift in Irish politics.
Other anti-immigration candidates, such as Gavin Pepper and Kevin Coyle, also made significant gains in different electoral areas, reflecting the nationalist movement’s momentum.
2. Family Affair: Pereppadans Dominate Tallaght
In a unique twist, father and son duo Baby and Britto Pereppadan were both elected to different electoral areas in Tallaght, representing Fine Gael. Their simultaneous victories highlighted a familial triumph in the political arena.
3. Cosgrove Siblings Spread Across Parties
Nessa Cosgrove of the Labour Party and Shane O’Callaghan of Fine Gael achieved electoral success in Sligo and Cork respectively, solidifying their family’s political legacy. Their diverging party affiliations demonstrated the breadth of political representation within a single household.
4. Recounts and Challenges
Across various electoral areas, recounts were underway to determine close election outcomes. From Dublin to Galway, candidates sought clarity on votes and contested results, adding suspense to an already eventful election season.
5. Cavanagh’s Decades-Long Reign
Amidst the shifting political landscape, Fine Gael stalwart Mary Hilda Cavanagh celebrated her 10th election victory, showcasing her enduring commitment to public service. With over five decades of experience, Cavanagh reflected on the keys to her success and the evolving role of women in politics.