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Today, Taoiseach Simon Harris requested President Michael D. Higgins to dissolve the current Dáil, initiating a general election scheduled for Friday, 29 November 2024. Polling stations will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., with over 3.5 million people eligible to vote nationwide.

Mr. Darragh O’Brien TD, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, has officially designated Friday, 29 November 2024, as the polling day for the next General Election. Polls will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., offering a 15-hour window for citizens across Ireland to cast their votes for the next Dáil Éireann.

To stand for election, candidates must meet specific requirements: they must be Irish citizens, at least 21 years old by polling day, and must submit their nominations by 12 noon on Saturday, 16 November. Candidates can self-nominate or be nominated by an elector within their constituency, provided they meet the criteria set out in the Electoral Act. Those without a political party affiliation must secure either 30 registered electors’ assents or lodge a deposit of €500 with the returning officer to complete their nomination.

Voter Eligibility and Registration

All Irish and British citizens registered as electors are eligible to vote, encompassing over 3.5 million individuals. Those eligible to vote but not yet registered are urged to do so by Tuesday, 12 November, to ensure inclusion. Registered electors can confirm their status and details online at www.checktheregister.ie. Unregistered voters or those needing to update their details can also submit their applications online or through their local authority.

For those eligible for postal voting or unable to vote in person due to health conditions and living in care facilities, the deadline for postal or special voting applications is Sunday, 10 November. Information on how to register is available from local councils or at www.checktheregister.ie.

This election, set to fill 173 seats across 43 constituencies, will play a pivotal role in shaping the 34th Dáil. More details on electoral procedures and voting requirements can be found on the government’s official election website at www.gov.ie/vote.