Tánaiste criticised over plan to block independents from reaching presidential ballot

By Hugh O'Farrell Walsh, The Wicklow People

Concerns have been raised at Tánaiste Simon Harris’s approach to the upcoming presidential election, after Fine Gael councillors were last week issued a diktat to block Independent candidates.

An independent councillor in the Tánaiste’s home town of Greystones, Stephen Stokes, has criticised what he described as a dangerous effort to block independent candidates from reaching the ballot paper.

"The presidency belongs to the people, not to the political establishment. By actively obstructing independent candidates, Simon Harris is undermining democracy and restricting the right of citizens to choose from a fair and open field. This is not about protecting institutions; it’s about protecting party interests - and the public can see through it."

He warned that blocking independents risks alienating communities and weakening trust in politics.

"This approach by Simon Harris and his party headquarters reminds me of authoritarian regimes who hate open elections. Perhaps a bit of desperation has set in. It's a terrible look for his leadership.

“Instead, he should trust his councillors to make a fair decision, which they are well capable of doing. I have worked alongside many of them. They are good, decent people." he added.

Wicklow County Council are gearing up to hear presentations from prospective candidates seeking a nomination for the upcoming election.

A meeting has been set for September 16 where 11 candidates are to make formal pitches to elected members of the local authority, seeking their support for a place on the ballot paper.

The council will release details on who will attend the council chamber to make their presentation on Thursday.

Ahead of that meeting Cllr Stokes has also criticised the priorities of Mr Harris.

"The Tánaiste would serve the public far better by addressing urgent national issues - housing shortages, hospital waiting lists, and the rising cost of living. In the Greystones District there is a major shortage of school places and children in desperate need of special needs provision.

“These are the challenges that demand his full attention, not political manoeuvres to limit choice in a presidential election. The people deserve leadership focused on solutions, not control.”

"Why on earth is Simon Harris spending any time on other candidates in the presidential election? He needs to take a close look at himself and work out what is important to Irish people, not just political elites."

Ahead of polling day on October 24, Cllr Stokes believes denying independent candidates a route to contest the presidency is to silence the voices of many people who do not feel represented by the party system.

“That is a dangerous precedent and deeply disrespectful to the electorate.” he added.