As candidates prepare for an electoral campaign blitz, the coffers of the political parties behind them offer an indication of the resources they have available. While election expenses, as strictly defined in the Electoral Act, are partly covered through a public funding stream distinct from the day-to-day running of political parties, this is only part of the equation. In line with inflation, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage Darragh O’Brien last week increased the ceilings applicable to direct campaigning costs for this election. Each candidate can now spend up to €38,900 in a three-seat constituency, €48,600 in a four-seat…