Fianna Fáil’s leader, Micheál Martin, has stated that he has met with several independent TDs and intends to consult with other political parties next week, reports RTE.
The major three parties have been conducting their first parliamentary sessions since the General Election 2024.
The individual meetings of Fianna Fáil, Sinn Féin, and Fine Gael signify the start of discussions to form the next coalition government.
In the meantime, a group consisting of eight Independents has been established in the Dáil, which will provide them with speaking time in the chamber and roles on Oireachtas committees, reports RTE.
While speaking on RTÉ’s Six One after the Fianna Fáil parliamentary meeting, Micheál Martin remarked that it is still “early days” but noted that his discussions with independents have been “constructive.”
“I sought to understand their viewpoints, and I gathered from the discussions that they are focused on finding solutions,” he explained.
Martin mentioned that the Government would require a majority that lasts the full term, adding that he was “heartened” to witness this mentality in several of the independents he has engaged with thus far, reports RTE.
“Both we and Fine Gael have secured the most seats; we’re not far from a majority, and I believe we must honor the people’s verdict,” he emphasized, reports RTE.
He added: “I believe this should be mirrored in our policy and in the government’s program, as well as in the very structure of the government. However, we are open to conversations with other parties as well,” reports RTE.
Mr. Martin also indicated that his party is receptive to discussions about implementing a rotating Taoiseach.
Minister for Finance Jack Chambers has been designated as the party’s lead negotiator for forming the government.
Fianna Fáil has secured the most substantial number of TDs in the General Election, tallying 48.
When asked about the possibility of Fianna Fáil seeking concessions from Fine Gael, given that they have ten more TDs, Mr. Martin affirmed that his party had achieved a significant number of seats.
“This must ultimately be reflected in how the government is structured and in the policies we pursue,” he stated after his party meeting earlier that day, reports RTE.
Regarding his interactions with Fine Gael leader Simon Harris, he mentioned that they had some preliminary discussions and would meet again on Friday at the British-Irish Council Summit in Edinburgh.
Martin confirmed that Mr. Chambers would spearhead the negotiations for forming the government while outgoing ministers would participate in discussions pertinent to their respective portfolios, reports RTE.
Members of the parliamentary party are also expected to contribute to the discussions.
Post-General Election, Fianna Fáil concluded with 48 TDs, Sinn Féin with 39, Fine Gael with 38, 16 Independents, Labour with 11, 11 Social Democrats, PBP-Solidarity with three, Aontú with two, Independent Ireland with four, the Green Party with one, and the 100% Redress Party has secured one seat, reports RTE.
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