The recent local elections in Ireland have brought about significant changes, with voters showing support for the centrist government, dealing a blow to Sinn Féin, and electing a few far-right candidates.
Preliminary results indicate that Ireland, like other European nations, has reinforced pro-EU mainstream parties in the European elections, much to the ruling coalition’s satisfaction.
There are calls for an early general election in autumn rather than waiting until March to complete the full term, as some coalition members believe the momentum should be seized.
Sinn Féin suffered losses in the local elections, losing ground to independents and micro-parties across the political spectrum.
While concerns about refugees and immigrants led to the rise of anti-migrant candidates, only a few managed to secure seats in county and city councils.
The Eurosceptic Irish Freedom party celebrated its first elected official, Glen Moore, in west Dublin, but the final outcome of candidates running on an “Ireland for the Irish” platform remains uncertain.
Despite expectations of heavy losses due to a housing crisis, the government parties managed to maintain their support in the local elections, with Fine Gael, Fianna Fáil, and the Greens all seeing modest slips in their first preference votes.
Former leader Leo Varadkar’s departure in April paved the way for Simon Harris to inject fresh energy into Fine Gael, leading to a renewed focus on issues like seeking asylum.
While there were calls for an early general election, both Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil leaders have agreed to complete the full term and are now focused on the upcoming autumn budget.
Sinn Féin, on the other hand, faced disappointment after failing to meet expectations in the local elections, with a hardening public stance on migrants and asylum seekers impacting their support.
Despite challenges, the party remains committed to addressing the concerns of the people and regaining their trust.
2024-06-10 10:23:36
Post from www.theguardian.com