World Immigration News

Housing, immigration take centre stage as Ireland readies for polls

Release Date: 2024-11-28
Media: RFI
Summary: Ireland's upcoming election on Friday focuses on key issues like housing, immigration, and political accountability, with voter dissatisfaction challenging the long-dominant Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil coalition.

Housing Crisis
The lack of affordable housing is the most critical issue, with a deficit of 256,000 homes reported. Rising rents have forced many young people to emigrate despite abundant jobs. While all major parties propose housing solutions, none have distinguished themselves on this issue.

Immigration
Immigration has surged, with 20% of Ireland's population born abroad and over 100,000 new arrivals in the past year. Tensions have arisen over insufficient accommodations for asylum-seekers, fueling protests. Sinn Féin faces criticism from some supporters for its less restrictive immigration stance.

Election Outlook
The race for 174 parliamentary seats sees support evenly divided among Fine Gael, Fianna Fáil, Sinn Féin, smaller parties, and independents. Despite topping the vote in 2020, Sinn Féin's path to power remains hindered by a lack of coalition partners.

Economic Strategy
The government plans to use €13 billion from Apple’s back taxes to prepare for future economic challenges. However, Fine Gael’s Simon Harris has faced campaign setbacks, while Fianna Fáil’s Micheál Martin emphasizes stability and experience.

The most likely outcome appears to be another coalition between Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil.
Tags: IRELAND

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