Johnny Guirke is the first candidate returned in Meath West, having topped the poll with 23 per cent of first preference votes.

From Oldcastle, Co Meath, Guirke moved to the United States in the late 1980s, where he worked in the construction business. He returned to Meath after 18 years and worked for the Kiernan Construction company before becoming involved in politics with Sinn Féin.

He first won election to Meath County Council in 2014 and was re-elected in 2019.

He was part of a wave of Sinn Féin candidates who took seats for the first time in 2020. He topped the poll in Meath West with 30 per cent of the vote after campaigning on childcare and housing costs, commuter issues and mental health.

During his time in the Dáil he devoted much of his speaking time to mental health issues and transport infrastructure.

Married to Mary, the father of three daughters and one son is a founding member of the Aidan McAnespie GAA Club in Boston.