Overview

• Prime Minister Simon Harris announced that Ireland will hold a general election before Christmas, ending speculation on the timing.
• The election date will be set after key legislation, including the Finance Bill, is passed, with November 29 proposed as a potential date.
• Fine Gael, led by Harris, is leading in polls, benefiting from a recent budget giveaway and controversies affecting Sinn Féin.
• Support for Sinn Féin has dropped significantly due to internal scandals and challenges in addressing immigration issues.
• Coalition partners Fianna Fáil and the Green Party are aligned with Fine Gael on the election timing, seeking a smooth transition.