Irish centre-right parties on track to re-election, but need new coalition partner

DUBLIN – The two centre-right parties, Fianna Fail and Fine Gael, appear set to maintain power in Ireland following Sunday’s general elections, though extensive negotiations will be needed to form a new government.

Out of the 153 seats already allocated in the 174-seat lower house of Parliament, Fianna Fail, led by Deputy Prime Minister Micheal Martin, has secured 40 seats, while Fine Gael, led by Prime Minister Simon Harris, has won 33.

The left-wing nationalist party Sinn Féin, led by Mary Lou McDonald, which had been projected to lead by a narrow margin in exit polls on Friday, currently holds second place with 34 seats.

Voter turnout was historically low at 59.7%, the lowest recorded since 1923, according to local media.

Given the complexity of the voting system, final results are not expected for several days. However, a coalition government involving the two centrist parties is widely anticipated.

To secure a majority, a party or coalition must hold at least 88 seats.

The two centre-right parties will likely need to find new allies, as their former partner, the Green Party, has seen a significant decline in support.

The final seats are likely to be filled on Monday.

Fianna Fail and Fine Gael have alternated in power since Ireland’s independence from the United Kingdom in 1921. The party with the most seats is expected to claim the position of Prime Minister, currently held by Simon Harris since April.

Micheal Martin, leader of Fianna Fail and re-elected in his Cork constituency, said there was “little interest” in discussing the future government until the count is finalised.

“I believe there is a possibility of reaching an agreement,” he replied when asked about the level of trust between his party and Fine Gael.

The new Parliament is scheduled to convene on December 18.