In a significant political development, Taoiseach Simon Harris has announced that Ireland will hold its general election on 29 November 2024. This decision comes after weeks of speculation and marks the beginning of a short, intense campaign period.
The announcement was made following Harris’s return from an EU summit in Budapest. He confirmed his intention to seek the dissolution of the Dáil by President Michael D. Higgins on Friday, 8 November. This move will officially kick off the election campaign, which will last just a few weeks.
Harris, who became Taoiseach earlier this year after Leo Varadkar stepped down, has been preparing for this moment. He emphasised the importance of concluding the government’s work, including passing the Finance Bill, which brings budget measures into effect. The timing of the election is strategic, aiming to capitalise on the current government’s achievements and the recent budget announcements.
The decision to call an early election is seen as a calculated move by Harris and his party, Fine Gael. The party has been performing well in the polls, while the main opposition, Sinn Féin, has been struggling with internal issues and declining support. This election will test the strength of the current coalition government, which includes Fine Gael, Fianna Fáil, and the Green Party.
The coalition, formed in 2020, has faced numerous challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, a housing crisis, and rising numbers of asylum seekers. Despite these issues, the government has implemented several key policies, such as reducing childcare costs and introducing free school meals.
The upcoming election campaign is expected to focus on several critical issues. Housing remains a top priority, with record levels of homelessness and ongoing concerns about the availability of affordable housing. The health system, despite significant investment, continues to face pressure, and immigration is likely to be a new focal point in this election.
Harris has expressed his desire for the government to come to an “amicable end” and is looking forward to seeking a new mandate from the people of Ireland. He has highlighted the importance of clarity on housing targets and the need for continued economic stability.
Political analysts suggest that a return of the current coalition is one of the more likely outcomes of this election. However, the dynamics of the campaign and the issues at play could lead to various possible scenarios. The performance of Sinn Féin and other opposition parties will be crucial in determining the next government.
The election will also be a test for Harris’s leadership and his ability to maintain the support of his coalition partners. The role of Tánaiste Micheál Martin and Green Party leader Roderic O’Gorman will be closely watched as the campaign unfolds.
