Donegal general election - Thomas Pringle - Independent

Independent TD for Donegal Thomas Pringle is set to run for re-election  with a comprehensive manifesto covering areas such as housing, where he addresses defective blocks, he states: “I will continue to fight for justice and fair compensation for all homeowners affected by defective blocks.”

Mr Pringle has outlined his support for The People's Document which was presented and launched by campaigners back in March 2024 and emphasised his support for a “true” 100% redress scheme which would see affected homes rebuilt and future homeowners protected from defective blocks.

When asked what made him decide to run for the upcoming general election, Mr Pringle said: “I was first elected in 2011 and have been re-elected at each election since. I believe it is important to have an independent voice in the Dáil representing Donegal that can put Donegal first.” If re-elected he said: “I will continue on the work that I have been doing representing the people of Donegal and hope to be able to put the Donegal view to the formation of government as well in the new Dáil.”

Speaking on the issue of fishing for Donegal communities, he said: “It’s shocking to see Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil politicians and general election candidates now making promises to fishermen and fishing communities, saying what they would do if only they were in government.

“Well, they have been in government, and what have they done to help struggling fishermen? There have even been two Donegal Fianna Fáil marine ministers over the years, and Donegal fishermen and fishing communities continue to suffer.”

He continued: “But now they expect voters to believe they will do something if only they’re given another shot at it. It’s shameless.”

Furthermore, he outlines his solution to tackling rent and deposit issues and his intention to impose a three-year rent freeze because while inflation has hit almost 10 per cent, the latest ESRI report shows that wages have not risen to be able to meet rental costs.

He explains that instead of tying rental rates to inflation while people’s income remains stagnant, his solution is to link annual rent increases to income levels while freezing rent for pensioners as many do not earn the income needed to make ends meet.