The majority of adults in Ireland (79 per cent) are likely to vote in the upcoming presidential election, according to research from iReach Insights. Despite some criticism that the three-horse race for Áras an Uachtaráin offers an underwhelming choice, voter turnout is expected to remain strong.
The candidates vying to succeed President Michael D. Higgins are Heather Humphreys (Fine Gael), Jim Gavin (Fianna Fáil), and Independent candidate Catherine Connolly. The election date has been confirmed for Friday, October 24th.
The research also revealed that 78 per cent of adults believe the next president should have political experience. When asked about the most important qualities the president should possess, 28 per cent of adults said a connection with ordinary people, 20 per cent prioritized experience in politics, another 20 per cent wanted a defender of Irish culture and heritage, and 15 per cent preferred a fresh outsider perspective.
Interestingly, among Generation Z adults, the highest priority (28 per cent) was placed on a fresh outsider perspective.
More than half of adults (55 per cent) feel connected to the presidency, with 14 per cent reporting they feel very connected. Additionally, over one in four adults (28 per cent) believe that younger voters will have a bigger influence in this election compared to previous ones. This sentiment is even stronger among adults aged 25-34, with 45 per cent expecting greater influence from younger voters.
Regarding the focus of the presidency, 30 per cent of adults think it should concentrate more on building unity within Ireland, while 24 per cent believe the president should place greater emphasis on representing Ireland abroad.
Despite much speculation about additional candidates, there will only be three contenders in the race. Sinn Féin chose to back Catherine Connolly along with other left-wing parties, rather than fielding their own candidate.
Maria Steen and Gareth Sheridan were considered the most likely alternative independent candidates. While Sheridan received the backing of two local authorities, he failed to meet the required quota of four. Steen pursued the Oireachtas nomination route and secured support from 18 TDs or senators but ultimately missed the necessary 20 nominations by two.
The presidential election promises to be an important moment for Ireland, with high engagement anticipated across the electorate.
https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/presidential-election-79-of-adults-will-vote-research-finds-1811312.html
