Donegal general election - Pearse Doherty - Sinn Féin

Sinn Féin TD Pearse Doherty is running to retain his seat in the Donegal constituency. Having spent over a decade in opposition, Doherty, like the rest of his party, remains steadfast in the hope that Sinn Féin will gain the majority.

“As Donegal TD for the past 14 years and Sinn Féin spokesperson for finance, I want to continue working for a much fairer and more equal country. I want to be part of a government that acts for ordinary people.

“That builds homes. That transforms health services. That delivers affordable childcare. That gives young people the opportunity to build their future here in Ireland. That delivers roads, rail and other much-needed infrastructure projects in Donegal.

“My party will deliver 100% redress to those affected by the defective concrete blocks scandal that has impacted Donegal so profoundly. Sinn Féin will also reverse the neglect of Letterkenny University Hospital, protect community hospitals and ensure everyone has access to a GP, address the regional imbalance by investing in roads, rail and other infrastructure and support our children and adults with disabilities.”

Sinn Féin’s election manifesto sets out what changes a government led by them would look like as they intend to set out “comprehensive costed” policies they believe will transform housing, healthcare and childcare while also delivering what they refer to as “lasting cuts” to the cost of living.

In terms of housing, Sinn Féin says it will deliver 300,000 new homes between 2025 and 2029 of which 75,000 would be social housing. The remaining homes will be split between 25,000 for affordable rent and 25,000 for affordable purchase. The party also says it will phase out Help to Buy over five years and has promised 100% redress to everyone affected by building defects. 

It also says it would hold a referendum to enshrine housing rights in the constitution.

Doherty concluded: “Sinn Féin in government will be transformative for the county and will put Donegal right at the heart of government.”