Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael have begun their negotiations to agree on a Programme for Government, with the goal of having an administration in place by the time the Dáil reconvenes on January 22, reports RTE.
In preparation for a formal invitation to participate in government formation negotiations later this week, the Regional Independent group has also convened to continue discussing a policy platform.
In the negotiations, which will centre on constituency concerns and other topics, the group plans to negotiate and function as a coherent one, reports RTE.
Seán Canney, Marian Harkin, Barry Heneghan, Michael Lowry, Kevin “Boxer” Moran, Noel Grealish, and Gillian Toole make up the ensemble.
Ms. Harkin, Mr. Canney, and Mr. Lowry make up the negotiation team, reports RTE.
Even while everyone agrees that the days ahead will not be easy, the process of finalising a government program is moving along nicely.
Prior to the formation of a government, the members of the document would have the last say whether it was approved by both parties, reports RTE.
According to the general layout of the upcoming administration, Micheál Martin will likely hold the position of Taoiseach for a longer period of time than Simon Harris, the leader of Fine Gael.
In the meanwhile, 40% of new cabinet ministers should be female, according to an organisation advocating for more women in politics, reports RTE.
On Nollaig na mBan, often known as Little Christmas, which was historically observed as a day for women following the hectic Christmas season, Women for Election held a protest outside Government Buildings this morning.
Students from Bray’s Loreto College, who were in favour of more women in politics, joined the organisation, reports RTE.
According to student Harriet Lerner, encouraging more women to enter politics would include placing more of them in cabinet positions.
“Yes 100%, we really need to represent the women of Ireland in government and also as role models for younger girls so we can get more women into politics. It’s really important that girls all over Ireland to be inspired and encouraged towards a career in politics,” Harriet said, reports RTE.
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