Thousands of Irish Schools to Close Early for Election Day

URGENT UPDATE: Thousands of primary schools across Ireland are set to close early next month due to the upcoming Presidential Election on October 24, 2023. This significant decision will affect the midterm break scheduled from October 27 to October 31, as schools will serve as polling stations for the election.

According to Citizens Information, approximately 5,500 polling stations will be located in primary schools throughout the country. The Cabinet will receive a memo confirming this new schedule on Wednesday, September 3, solidifying the election date and its implications for students and families.

The only confirmed candidates for the presidential race thus far are Catherine Connolly, an Independent TD from Galway West, and Heather Humphreys, the Fine Gael candidate who replaces Mairead McGuinness, who withdrew due to health issues. Connolly has garnered endorsements from Labour, the Social Democrats, and People Before Profit, while Humphreys has support from Tánaiste Simon Harris, who praised her leadership on social media, stating, “I believe Heather can break down barriers and bring people together.”

The political landscape is heating up as other names enter the conversation. Former GAA president Seán Kelly has suspended his candidacy for the Fine Gael nomination, citing a lack of party support. Meanwhile, former Dublin GAA manager Jim Gavin appears poised to receive backing from Fianna Fáil, thanks to support from Taoiseach Micheál Martin.

Speculation also surrounds potential candidates like Bob Geldof, Bertie Ahern, Conor McGregor, and former meteorologist Joanna Donnelly, who have all expressed varying degrees of interest in entering the race.

As the election date approaches, the impact on Irish families is palpable, with many now adjusting plans for the midterm break. The Presidential Election is expected to be a significant event, culminating in an inauguration set for November 11, 2023. Stay tuned for updates as this story develops and more candidates potentially enter the fray.