Ireland Confirms General Election Date for November 29

Ireland is set to hold an early general election on November 29, announced by Taoiseach Simon Harris following favorable polling for his party and a decline in support for Sinn Fein. Harris requested the dissolution of the Dail, officially starting the campaign season, which will focus on key issues such as housing, healthcare, and cost-of-living. Political parties, particularly Labour, are already unveiling their priorities, with Labour proposing a state-led construction initiative to address housing shortages. An electoral commission has launched an online tool for voters to check their constituencies, especially relevant given the boundary changes affecting over 400,000 residents since 2020. This election comes after a budget aimed at winning voter favor, with Harris's party currently leading in polls. The political landscape remains dynamic as Sinn Fein, historically the main opposition party, now trails behind Harris's coalition.