Fine Gael has claimed its membership is now at a record high, with more than 34,000 listed as belonging to the party.
In a statement to launch a nationwide canvass by local members over the summer, Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny said the party had "never been in better shape" to fight a general election.
The statement follows a major reorganisation of the party following its disastrous performance in the last general election.
"Our membership - in accordance with our audited accounts - is at a record high; our structures have been refined and professionalised; and our candidate-selection process is very well advanced," said Mr Kenny.
"I expect all conventions to be held before the end of this calendar year. I'm now challenging the organisation and our 34,219 members to continue the momentum behind Fine Gael and present our message in every town, village and community in the country over the coming months."
Fine Gael's membership claims are in contrast with Fianna Fáil, where an internal report on membership said while the party's membership database contained 50,000 names, the real level of party activists was between 15,000 and 20,000.
The report by Minister for Finance Brian Cowen also found that party officer membership was predominantly middle-aged and elderly. It is planning a major recruitment drive.
