Politics

Irish election edges closer as scandals test Sinn Féin’s support

Coalition leaders in the Republic are set to discuss a possible election date on Monday

Sinn Fein’s President Mary Lou McDonald
Sinn Fein’s President Mary Lou McDonald could soon be facing an election as her party struggles with political scandals. (Niall Carson/PA)

GROWING speculation that a general election in the Republic could be held in November has followed an opinion poll showing a slight dip in support for both Sinn Féin and Fianna Fáil.

After a bruising period of political scandals for Sinn Féin, the Sunday Times poll showed that Fine Gael remained the most popular party by maintaining their 24% rating.

Sinn Féin’s support dropped by 2% to 16%, with Independents increasing by 2% up to 22%.

Fianna Fáil dropped 1% to 19% and Labour was up one to 5%.

There was no change for The Social Democrats at 5%, them Green Party at 4%, People Before Profit/Solidarity (3%) and Aontú (2%).

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The Taoiseach Simon Harris, and his coalition partners in Fianna Fail and the Green Party are expected to meet to discuss a potential election date on Monday.

Green Party leader Roderic O’Gorman recently stated his preference for a November 29 date- in contrast to the Taoiseach’s initial hopes for early next year.

It is also reported that the main political parties have collectively increased their support by 23% since May, with Sinn Féin falling by 41% in the same period.

While Sinn Féin is still reported to be the most popular party in the 18-35 age group, it remains to be seen if the boost in support for independents will translate into votes.

Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth Minister Roderic O’Gorman
Green Party leader and coalition member Roderic O’Gorman has called for a November election. (Brian Lawless/PA)

On Friday, Mr O’Gorman had commented: “I’m starting to get the sense that people are getting a little tired of the ‘will they, won’t they’.

“Probably now is the time to give some degree of certainty to the Irish people in terms of the election date.”

He added: “My preference is for a November election, on November 29. I think that gives us the opportunity to get those final pieces of legislation through.”

Mr Harris responded: “I certainly won’t be doing my engagement or consultation through the media, but I will be bringing clarity to this matter shortly.”

He had previously stated the Government should go full term - with the latest possible date on March 22 next year.