Míde Nic Fhionnlaoich has been selected as the Social Democrats’ candidate for the forthcoming Galway West by-election.
Born and raised in the Gaeltacht, Míde is a native Irish speaker and has been involved in grassroots activism on housing, mental health, the Irish language and neutrality.
A Bachelor of law graduate, she previously served as welfare officer for UCD Students’ Union, and subsequently worked for Mental Health Reform.
Speaking after last night’s selection convention in Knocknacarra Community Centre, Míde said:
“I am honoured to have been selected to contest the by-election for the Social Democrats in Galway West, my home constituency. If elected, I will commit to fighting for a Galway that works for all the people living there – a Galway where quality of life is guaranteed by decent public services and access to things like affordable housing and quality healthcare.
“No one should have to live with the worry of waiting lists for vital care, of eviction notices, of their children being raised for export, of their language disappearing from the world.
“Right now, we’re facing the sharp end of a disability, housing, and healthcare crises that have left many struggling to get by. Even though we’re constantly told that Ireland is doing well economically, ordinary citizens feel more squeezed than ever as the cost-of-living crisis continues to bite.
“As a TD I will fight to ease the avoidable hardship being experienced by so many in their daily lives. This is something that must not just be acknowledged – it must be addressed.
“The Social Democrats want to deliver a future for Galway West that prioritises the Gaeltacht, the housing crisis, and healthcare services. If elected, I will fight continuously for a real republic of equals where inclusion, diversity and social justice are not just valued, but reflected in government policy.”
Welcoming Míde’s selection, Social Democrats leader Holly Cairns said:
“As Míde’s values so closely align with ours, I am delighted to have a candidate of her calibre running for the Social Democrats in Galway West. Through her roles with UCD Students’ Union and Mental Health Reform, she has a long record of dedicated advocacy which makes her a strong choice as the party’s candidate.
“As a Galway native, Míde is perfectly positioned to understand the needs of this beautiful constituency, which has long been neglected by successive governments when it comes to badly needed investment.
“I would like to wish Míde every success in the by-election and look forward to working closely with her during the campaign.”
February 4, 2026