After months of speculation Taoiseach Simon Harris finally announced that the general election will take place on November 29th.
Having long refused to comment on his choice of election day, it has to irk him that he was bounced into naming – or indeed, confirming – the date by Tánaiste Micheál Martin. That was on Wednesday and later today he will travel to the Áras to request that President Michael D Higgins dissolve the Dáil.
Once that happens, it’s every party for themselves with the Coalition partners, Fine Gael, Fianna Fáil and the Greens fighting it out in the constituencies.
But what are the key issues? Will immigration be a hot button topic after housing and health? And what about the far-right, particularly those candidates who emerged during this year’s local elections who might now set their sights on the Dáil? And will the parties be looking to the US for tips on campaign strategies?
Potential for serious damage to Irish economy as Trump reshapes trade, Ministers warned
Ireland weather: Snow and ice warnings in effect across Ireland with highs of four degrees expected today
‘I’m hoping at least one girl who is on the fence about reporting her violent boyfriend ... will read about my case’
Paschal Donohoe had private undisclosed dinner with Ryanair’s Michael O’Leary
Irish Times political editor Pat Leahy tees up what will be a busy three weeks of electioneering.
Presented by Bernice Harrison. Produced by Aideen Finnegan.
