BY JEROME HUGHES
Candidates are entering the final few days of canvassing as the county prepares to go to the polls this coming Friday.
THE local electorate faces a crucial decision amidst a diverse pool of 91 candidates seeking just 37 available seats on Donegal County Council.
The upcoming local elections in Donegal promise to deliver intriguing battles as lobby groups exert pressure on candidates, even before they secure their seats.
After weeks of tireless canvassing, candidates find themselves still knocking on doors for the next few days, worn out but undeterred.
Despite assurances of support, the reality is that many promised votes may not materialise.
As a result, those vying for a seat face an uncertain wait until the ballots are cast, separated, and counted.
The Donegal News spoke to one of Donegal’s longest serving councillors to try and get an insight into the workings of local government, and to find out what newly elected councillors might expect. Liford-based Gerry Crawford has been a councillor since 1999.
“Firstly, it’s a massive honour for anyone who gets elected by the people. Also, those who put themselves forward, but don’t get elected, should also be praised because it’s a tough thing to do,” suggests Cllr Crawford.
The veteran politician is also advising newcomers to manage their expectations. He says it’s simply not possible to achieve certain things no matter how hard you try.
Cllr Gerry Crawford
“Nevertheless, you have to try your best but don’t promise anything you can’t do. Be open and honest. Let people know where you stand. Sometimes that’s not easy.
“The role is difficult and challenging. You really need the support of your family and community but it can be a very rewarding job. You can make a difference but that’s not always possible and it can take time to make gains,” added Cllr Crawford.
Notably, some familiar faces will be absent from the race this time around. Fianna Fáil’s Rena Donaghey, Independents Nicholas Crossan and Tom Conaghan, along with Sinn Féin’s Liam Doherty, are opting out of seeking reelection.
Sinn Féin councillor, Maire Therese Gallagher had already stepped down earlier this year, adding to the dynamic landscape of the elections.
In the last local elections in 2019, Fianna Fáil clinched 12 seats while Sinn Féin secured ten, shaping the composition of the county council. However, the addition of the newly-formed 100% Redress party introduces an extra element of intrigue to this year’s race.
The political landscape sees a diverse array of contenders, with parties like Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael, Sinn Féin, Aontú, and Labour fielding multiple candidates. Additionally, there are 17 Independent candidates in the running.
Newcomers to the political fray include six candidates from the 100% Redress Party, advocating for those affected by defective building materials.
The anticipation is palpable as candidates navigate the delicate dance between optimism and realism, knowing that the true verdict lies in the hands of the voters.
With 252 polling stations set to open across Donegal from 07:00 to 22:00 this Friday, the electorate prepares to make their voices heard in shaping the future of local governance.
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