ⓒ Irish Times
Independent Ireland’s Michael Fitzmaurice has indicated his party’s willingness to participate in a coalition government alongside Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael. Fitzmaurice, elected in Roscommon-Galway, emphasized their proactive approach, stating they aim to engage constructively with the major parties. He highlighted the party’s focus on agriculture, housing, and balanced regional development, suggesting that their policy proposals have influenced the platforms of the larger parties.
Fitzmaurice expressed confidence in securing at least four seats, with potential gains in Sligo, Galway West, and possibly Galway East. The party anticipates a total of seven seats, although three remain uncertain. The article also mentions other smaller parties and independents vying for increased representation in the election, including Independent Ireland, Labour, and the Social Democrats. Each party expressed optimism regarding their electoral performance, with Labour expecting additional seats in Dublin and the Social Democrats clarifying their willingness to collaborate with Fianna Fáil or Fine Gael in government. Notable individual results included Verona Murphy’s election victory in Wexford and Peadar Tóibín’s retention of his seat in Meath West.
People Before Profit-Solidarity’s Richard Boyd-Barrett reported increased national support but acknowledged ongoing challenges in specific areas. He expressed optimism for his own re-election, as well as for his party colleagues, while acknowledging difficulties faced by other candidates. The article concludes with mentions of several other election outcomes, including the loss of seats by former ministers Ossian Smyth and Joe O’Brien in Dublin.
