Author: Mary Regan
The anticipation is high as Ireland prepares to announce its nomination for the coveted position of EU Commissioner early next week, ending months of speculation and reshaping the top-level of the coalition government. With EU leaders set to meet for negotiations, the government aims to make the nomination before the horse trading begins. All eyes are on Finance Minister Michael McGrath, widely expected to get the nod. His potential nomination as the Fianna Fáil candidate comes amidst speculation that his brother, Councillor Seamus McGrath, may seek his Dáil seat. The move could signal a significant change for the coalition, given…
In the ever-changing landscape of Irish politics, the recent elections have surprised many by maintaining a sense of stability. Despite the tumultuous events of the past few years, the results seem to echo previous election outcomes. Popular parties such as Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil have maintained their positions, with Sinn Féin showing a slight decline from previous successes. This has led to speculation about the future direction of Sinn Féin and the need for a strategic reassessment. Meanwhile, the government parties are celebrating their ability to retain support amidst recent challenges. Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael are seeing these…
Counting in Irish Local Elections: Five Stories Revealed As the ballot count progresses, insights into the political landscape are emerging from count centers across Ireland. Here are five intriguing stories shedding light on the state of Irish politics. 1 – The Cabra Contest In Dublin’s Cabra, Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald faces tough competition from Fine Gael candidate Ray McAdam, who is poised to top the poll. This race could impact Minister Paschal Donohoe’s future decisions. 2 – Bertie’s Revenge In Dublin Central, Fianna Fáil’s John Stephens, supported by Bertie Ahern, is challenging sitting Councillor Eimear McCormack. Memories of…
With just two days left of campaigning for the local and European elections, the electorate is proving hard to read, with many voters still undecided. The results on Friday will provide a crucial indication of where the parties stand with the electorate and set the tone for the upcoming political period. Sinn Féin is hoping to make gains after recent setbacks, while Fine Gael is looking to maintain its position under new leadership. Fianna Fáil faces uncertainty about its true level of support, while Independents are gaining traction among voters. These elections mark a significant moment in Irish politics, with…
With only two days left until the local and European elections, voters are still undecided, making the outcome uncertain for many candidates. The results will provide insight into the parties’ standings and the electorate’s sentiments, setting the stage for future political developments. Sinn Féin’s performance will be closely watched, with a focus on whether the party has maintained its popularity or experienced a decline due to recent controversies. Fine Gael, under new leadership, aims to secure a solid result to potentially extend its time in government. Fianna Fáil faces uncertainty about its actual level of support but hopes for a…
The Taoiseach Stands Firm on Election Timing Despite Poll Results The Taoiseach has reiterated his stance on the timing of the next general election, stating that his position remains unchanged despite recent polls showing a shift in support between Fine Gael and Sinn Féin. Simon Harris, who took over as leader of Fine Gael in March, has expressed his preference for the current coalition government to complete its full term, aiming for a general election in early 2025. While a recent opinion poll indicated a decline in support for Sinn Féin and a rise for Fine Gael, bringing the two…
A recent opinion poll by the Sunday Independent/Ireland Thinks revealed a significant shift in support for political parties in Ireland as the local and European elections draw near. Sinn Féin experienced a notable seven-point drop to 22%, while Fine Gael saw a three-point increase to 20%. Independents emerged as the most popular group with a four-point rise to 23%, surpassing both Sinn Féin and Fine Gael. Fianna Fáil rose by one point to 17%, while the Social Democrats slipped one point to 5%. The Green Party maintained its 4% support, while Labour, Aontú, and Solidarity-People Before Profit remained steady at…
Exciting developments are underway in Dublin as frontline gardaí have started wearing body cameras in a pilot program involving around 350 officers across three stations. The cameras, worn on the chest, will help officers in their daily duties by capturing important footage that can be used as evidence. While the cameras do not need to be announced when in use, best practices encourage officers to inform the public. The footage collected will only be accessible once the cameras are placed in a docking station for transfer to a central storage facility. Government officials, including Taoiseach and Minister for Justice, have…
Exciting news as frontline gardaí in Dublin begin using body cameras starting today. This pilot program, with 350 members from three stations, is a step towards a nationwide rollout next year. The body cameras, worn on the chest, will flash red when turned on. While not required to inform the public, gardaí are encouraged to do so as best practice. Footage can only be accessed after being transferred to a central storage facility, enhancing transparency. Minister for Justice Helen McEntee sees this technology as vital for a modern police force. She believes it is crucial for gardaí to have the…
The upcoming European Parliament elections on 7 June are heating up as candidates crisscross the country in search of votes. While European elections in Ireland may not always grab headlines like general elections, they provide important insights into the state of Irish politics. Here are five key things to watch out for: 1. Immigration Concerns: Migration issues have taken center stage in this election, with tensions running high over accommodation shortages, tent cities, and asylum seekers. Opinions on immigration vary widely, making it a key issue for voters and parties alike. 2. Creeping Euroscepticism: As global challenges like pandemics, wars,…