Tánaiste Micheál Martin, leader of the Fianna Fáil party, has dismissed reports of possible early general elections, stating that “no discussions” have taken place between the primary members of the Coalition. Amid growing speculation of a potential vote in November subsequent to a promising budget, Martin affirmed his dedication to implementing essential legislation prior to any election. This suggests the Coalition would likely continue into the next year.
Martin stressed that the timeline for ending the Government would need to be mutually agreed upon by himself, Fine Gael’s leader and Taoiseach Simon Harris, and Roderic O’Gorman of the Green Party.
He stated, “At the inception of this Government, and during significant transitions, the tripartite leadership underscored our individual commitment to carrying out our mandate. There have been no conversations about concluding our mandate prematurely.”
The leader added that there’s no cause to assume anything has deviated and that all three party leaders have repeatedly confirmed publicly that any final decision about the completion of their term will be jointly discussed and agreed.
“This method has been pivotal in the Government’s operations for 4½ years, so we do not anticipate any deviations – particularly considering the importance of the legislation currently awaiting consideration in the Oireachtas,” said Martin.
Continuing, Martin stated that the Government’s focus must be on passing laws that will secure adequate and full financing for the State for the current and following year.
He said, “We are obligated to execute the most sweeping reform of planning in recent memory – a critical requisite for accelerating housing and infrastructure development.” He continues to insist on the necessity of vital social legislation, particularly in mental health, and the importance of putting the well-being of their citizens above political interests.
In a criticism likely aimed at government members who have started campaigning prematurely, Mr Martin pronounced: “Actual governance is significantly more challenging than campaigning, necessitating attentiveness, the capability to listen, learn and proceed accordingly. The true and consistent achievements of this Government spanning the last four and a half years are rooted in our resolve to prioritize the duties of government over political engagements.”
“We are committed to concluding our consensus-based agenda, after which we will honour our reiterated promises to the citizens, by presenting our latest objectives for a fresh mandate for each respective party.”