Dublin Lord Mayor Ray McAdam has been selected as Fine Gael’s candidate for the upcoming by-election in Dublin Central, triggered by the resignation of former Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe last autumn. The announcement, made Monday night, positions McAdam as a key contender in a race to fill a seat vacated by a prominent figure in Irish politics.
The Dublin Central by-election presents a significant opportunity for Fine Gael to reaffirm its presence in the capital. McAdam, who has served as Lord Mayor since June 2025, brings a wealth of experience from his time on Dublin City Council, first elected in 2009. He has consistently won re-election, topping the poll in his local electoral area in 2024, demonstrating strong local support. This by-election is a crucial test for the party under the leadership of Tánaiste Simon Harris.
McAdam’s selection was largely a formality, as he was the sole nominee seeking the Fine Gael candidacy. The party held its selection convention at the Ashling Hotel, but the outcome was widely anticipated. He is a native of County Cavan but has been deeply involved in Dublin politics for over a decade. His political career began with his election to Dublin City Council in 2009, marking the first time a Fine Gael councillor had been elected in his local electoral area in 20 years.
The by-election was necessitated by Paschal Donohoe’s departure to take up a senior role with the World Bank. Donohoe’s move created a vacancy in a constituency he had represented for a considerable period, and McAdam has been a close political associate throughout Donohoe’s career, even serving as his assistant at one point. The timing of the by-election, expected in May, will be closely watched as it could influence the broader political landscape.
McAdam’s Vision for Dublin Central
Following his selection, McAdam outlined his campaign focus, emphasizing “stronger communities, a more vibrant city, and practical leadership that gets things done.” He pledged to bring a record of delivery and energy to Dáil Éireann, focusing on the future of the constituency. He aims to build on his experience as Lord Mayor, championing initiatives focused on inclusivity, safety, and openness for all residents of Dublin Central.
Tánaiste Simon Harris voiced strong support for McAdam’s candidacy, describing him as a “decent, hard-working politician” who is deeply committed to the communities of Dublin Central. Harris highlighted McAdam’s 17 years of service as a councillor and Lord Mayor as evidence of his dedication to constituents. “Ray has always demonstrated his desire to deliver for his constituents,” Harris stated.
Lord Mayor’s Key Initiatives as Dublin’s Leader
As Lord Mayor, McAdam has spearheaded several key initiatives under the theme of “Celebrating Dublin.” These include “Reimagining Our City Centre” through the Dublin 2050 Commission, aiming to shape a long-term vision for O’Connell Street and the city core. He also launched efforts to address vacancy and dereliction with a publicly accessible Dublin Vacancy Map, seeking to unlock empty buildings for housing and community use. Other initiatives include promoting sports and wellbeing, driving disability inclusion, and providing a platform for young Dubliners to shape policy.
McAdam also serves on Dublin City Council’s Mobility & Public Realm and Housing Strategic Policy Committees. He is co-Chair of the O’Devaney Gardens Redevelopment Community Consultative Forum and a Board member of both the Grangegorman Development Agency and Dublin Town.
Born in 1984, McAdam’s family roots extend to both County Cavan and County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland, where his father hails from Wattlebridge. His mother, Anne Clarke, is from Latest Line in Dublin.
The upcoming weeks will be critical as McAdam formally launches his campaign and engages with voters across Dublin Central. The by-election is expected to be closely contested, with other parties yet to announce their candidates. The outcome will undoubtedly have implications for the political dynamics in the capital and nationally.
As the campaign unfolds, voters will be looking for concrete proposals and a clear vision for the future of Dublin Central. McAdam’s experience and established presence in the constituency position him as a strong contender, but the ultimate decision rests with the electorate. Stay tuned for further updates as the by-election approaches.
What are your thoughts on the upcoming Dublin Central by-election? Share your comments below and let us know what issues matter most to you.
