This article is from page 1 of the 2014-05-20 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 1 JPG
SINN Fein remain confident as early indications suggest it could secure its first Clare County Council seat in living memory when the electorate go to the polls on Friday.
With national polls showing voters favouring Independent and Sinn Féin candidates, those canvassing in Clare said the party is looking strong.
Independent candidates have also reported that people on the doorsteps are indicating support for non-parties and the Government opposition party. Despite being in Government, Fine Gael remains optimistic although cautious, while Fianna Fáil are getting a less hostile reception than the last time they went on the hustings. Meanwhile Labour is reportedly hopeful but taking nothing for granted.
Director of Elections for Fine Gael Edmund Jennings said that while candidates are getting a good reaction on the doorstep, there is a fear there could be a surprise when the votes are counted.
Finbarr MacGabhann, Director of Elections for Sinn Féin in Clare told The Clare People the party was very encouraged by the reception on the doorstep.
Director of Elections for Fianna Fáil Gerry Reidy said that reception on the doorsteps for the party’s candidates is much better than the last local elections in 2009 and general election in 2011.
Labour TD Michael McNamara said that while the party is confident it is taking nothing for granted.
Meanwhile, the majority of Independent candidates believe this is going to be their election as the electorate says anything but party politics.