Donegal general election- Niall McConnell - Independent

Independent candidate Niall McConnell, a self-confessed citizen journalist, ran in the June 2024 election, securing 1,127  votes before being eliminated in the sixth count. 

Inspired by his love for Ireland and driven by a desire to effect meaningful change, the Donegal man decided to enter politics. With a platform centred on national sovereignty, cultural preservation, and agricultural sustainability, Niall aims to represent the interests of the Irish people and ensure that their voices are heard in the corridors of power.

He envisions a future where Ireland’s unique heritage is celebrated and protected, where rural communities thrive, and where the nation’s sovereignty is upheld.

The sheep farmer holds traditional values, standing by the mantra, “Ireland is full”, with his main policies including, cherishing Irish culture, traditions, faith, and language, standing up for farmers, supporting Irish families, creating good quality and highly paid employment, housing "our" people, cherishing elders, kickstart Donegal's tourism potential, address the North West's healthcare crisis, and, levelling up infrastructure and public transport. 

The citizen journalist is an advocate particularly for traditional families, and housing the Irish people.

Taking to his website, he said: “As a father, I promise to place a strong emphasis on protecting the family unit and the welfare of children. My platform prioritizes encouraging families to have more children, promoting policies that support child-rearing, and advocating against abortion. My campaign highlights the importance of traditional family values and aims to create a supportive environment for future generations in Donegal. 

“I aim to honour the role of motherhood in our society and I want to make it easier for more women to stay home and look after their children,” he added. 

On housing, he stated: “I am passionate about solving Ireland’s severe housing shortage and addressing the homelessness epidemic. I believe that every Irish family deserves a safe and secure place to call home.

“My mission is to implement effective housing policies, increase the availability of affordable homes, and provide robust support for those at risk of homelessness. 

“By prioritizing these issues, we can build a more inclusive and compassionate society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, not just survive.”