Dublin, Dec 03 (V7N) – Ireland’s general election concluded late Monday, marking significant shifts in the political landscape. After three days of vote-counting, the incumbent coalition parties, Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael, are poised to retain power despite setbacks for their Green Party partner.

Coalition Retains Majority
Fianna Fáil emerged as the largest party with 48 seats, ahead of Sinn Féin (39) and Fine Gael (38). The coalition, however, faces a reshuffle after the Green Party’s collapse, securing only one seat compared to its 12 in 2020. Party leader Roderic O’Gorman retained his seat, saving the Greens from complete electoral erasure.

Blamed for unpopular policies like higher fuel taxes amidst a cost-of-living crisis, the Greens bore the brunt of voter dissatisfaction. Analysts cited the party’s precarious position as a junior coalition partner, often forced to compromise on its core environmental agenda.

Despite the losses, O’Gorman remains resolute. “We’ve done what we believe in. There’s been a cost, but that’s politics,” he stated, emphasizing the enduring importance of climate issues.

Far-Right Fails to Break Through
Ireland remains unique in Europe, with no far-right presence in its parliament. Immigration, though prominent during the campaign, ranked low as a voter priority, with housing, cost-of-living, and healthcare concerns taking precedence.

A fragmented far-right field failed to secure more than four percent in any constituency. “There were too many extreme candidates splitting the vote,” said political scientist Eoin O’Malley.

Key Takeaways

Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael to continue their coalition leadership.

Sinn Féin solidifies its position as the main opposition.

The Green Party faces existential challenges following a significant loss.

Anti-immigration sentiment remains present but fragmented and without parliamentary representation.

As coalition talks begin, Ireland’s political scene underscores the challenges of balancing governance with voter expectations in a shifting socio-economic landscape.

END/WD/RH/