CANDIDATES:A SIGNIFICANT increase in the number of Independent candidates is expected in the 12 Dublin constituencies, a trend likely to be replicated across the State.
In 2007, 24 Independent or non-party candidates contested the election in the 12 Dublin constituencies. Already, before nominations have been accepted in this campaign, the Dublin city and county returning offices have received 16 non-party bookings from candidates for appointments to present their papers.
In 2007 Dublin South East had the highest number of Independents at six, while Dublin West was the only constituency with no Independent candidate.
In general there were 121 candidates in the 12 constituencies in 2007, with expectations of up to 30 more candidates in this election. Nominations by appointment only are accepted tomorrow and Monday, but a large number of “walk-in” nomination papers are expected on Tuesday and Wednesday before the noon deadline.
Independent candidates must either pay a deposit of €500 or have a statutory declaration from 30 registered voters in the constituency. Dublin county returning office reports a significant number of applications for such assent forms. Nominations are only accepted in person from the candidate or a proposer who is a registered voter in the constituency.
Further information is available at dublincityreturningofficer.ie and dublincountyreturningofficer.com
