Ballot Boxes Open for Irish General Election 2024

The 2024 General Election in Ireland has commenced with the opening of ballot boxes across several constituencies. In Laois, 36 out of 114 boxes have been opened, with 12 candidates competing for three seats after a recent constituency division. In Galway East, counting is underway, with expectations for Independent TD Seán Canney to perform well in his local area. Carlow-Kilkenny is experiencing similar developments, with the count taking place in Kilkenny and the promise of new representatives due to only three of the five outgoing TDs running again. In Meath West, all 103 boxes are expected to be opened by midday, while Rathdown, which has added a fourth seat, sees a competitive race with incumbents and new challengers. Meanwhile, in Clare, 20 candidates are vying for four seats, with the counting process expected to span several days.