Galway West By-election Poll Drops; HSE Warns of €250 Million Overspend

The Irish Times/TG4 Ipsos poll for the Galway West by-election will be released at 7pm, providing the first constituency-level data for the campaign. Dublin Central will follow next week. By-elections are characterized by intense contests, low voter turnout, and a strong media focus, with local and national issues converging.

Cost of living is expected to dominate, fueled by rising inflation and recent Eurostat figures showing Ireland has the EU's most expensive electricity. However, exchequer returns indicate economic strength with stronger-than-expected income, VAT, and corporation tax receipts, robust employment, and increased retail sales.

Meanwhile, HSE boss Anne O’Connor warned that its financial position has «significantly worsened» recently, leading to a recruitment pause and increased spending scrutiny. A €250 million overspend less than halfway through the year is concerning, though the Department of Public Expenditure notes ongoing efforts to control it. Separately, Tusla reported to the Public Accounts Committee that 300 asylum seekers claiming to be children were found to be adults.

In other news, Micheál Martin, Simon Harris, and Darragh O’Brien are in Belfast for railway announcements and meetings at Stormont. President Catherine Connolly will launch a conservation project at 11 Parnell Square. The Dáil will discuss Europe Day and a Labour motion on a cost-of-living mini-budget. Committees will address defence procurement, online safety for youth, and the National Oil Reserves Agency.