The path to Ireland’s new government reaches its final stage today as Fine Gael’s parliamentary party prepares to vote on the draft programme for government, following Fianna Fáil’s strong endorsement yesterday at their special Ard Fheis in Dublin.
Fine Gael TDs and senators will cast their ballots between 11am and 12pm at Leinster House, with results expected to be announced via social media later today. The vote marks the culmination of Fine Gael’s ratification process, which began Friday with five regional events across the country.
While approval of the document would clear the way for Micheál Martin’s nomination as Taoiseach on Wednesday, the process hasn’t been without controversy. Some backbenchers from both major parties have privately expressed concerns about significant concessions made to Independent TDs, who secured two super junior ministerial positions, three junior ministerial roles, and the Ceann Comhairle position for Verona Murphy.
According to The Journal, another contentious issue has emerged over Dáil speaking time, with Independent TDs not given ministerial positions seeking to form an Opposition technical group. While Taoiseach-designate Micheál Martin has downplayed these concerns, some within his party disagree. Questions have also arisen about Michael Lowry’s involvement in the government, a matter that Fine Gael leader Simon Harris may need to address in the coming days.
The draft programme for government, published last week, outlines the joint vision of Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael, the Regional Independents, and the Healy Raes for the next five years of governance.