Leaders gather for televised debate ahead of parliamentary elections in Iceland

The leaders of eleven political parties contesting in the upcoming parliamentary elections gathered for a televised debate. The discussion spanned various topics, with a significant focus on economic issues, housing, and immigration. As expected, the parties presented differing views on how to address the national finances, with some prioritizing revenue while others emphasized spending.

The most heated debates revolved around immigration policies. In a lighter moment, participants engaged in a moment of praise for each other, initiated by Arnar Þór Jónsson, who complimented Sigmundur Davíð Gunnlaugsson.

Recent polls show the Social Democrats, although in decline, remain the largest party according to a new Gallup national survey. The Independence Party has gained ground.

In addressing health care, Inga Sæland of the People’s Party emphasized the need for a national effort to improve healthcare staffing and eliminate waiting lists, particularly concerning mental health. Bjarni Benediktsson from the Independence Party stressed the completion of Landspítali (the national hospital) and increasing care home facilities. He called for increased education in health professions and criticized the high income tax rates that he argued contribute to doctors going on strike.

Thorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir of the Reform Party highlighted the alarming deteriorating mental health among the youth, while Sigurður Ingi Jóhannsson of the Progress Party called for making work in the healthcare sector more desirable. Multiple leaders discussed the urgent need for improvements in healthcare services for the elderly and pathways to make entry into the health profession more accessible for young people.

Overall, the debate showcased the key issues ahead of the elections, with economic and healthcare concerns taking center stage as parties aimed to sway voters in the lead-up to November 30 elections.