Political parties agree: Elections this week are actually about local issues

Political parties agree that, for the first time in years, the local elections this week really are about local issues, on everything from housing to the environment to policing to dog-fouling. The 2014 contest was marked by protests over austerity, water charges, and medical card cuts, but the issues are different this time for those wanting to be councillors or who are seeking re-election.

Also this time, there is a threshold for running female candidates. Moreover, the results this weekend will be viewed as a litmus test for any snap general election ahead. Another outcome of local elections is how councillors or parties control authorities.