Irish Politics — Ireland & Northern Ireland 🇮🇪🇬🇧
Irish Politics — Ireland & Northern Ireland 🇮🇪🇬🇧
Last updated: 15 July 2026
1. Republic of Ireland — Dáil Éireann
Current Situation
The 35th Government is a coalition of Fianna Fáil (48 seats) and Fine Gael (38 seats), supported by a group of independents (the Regional Independent Group). Micheál Martin (FF) serves as Taoiseach under an agreed rotation — Simon Harris (FG) will take over as Taoiseach in November 2027.
The government survived a motion of no confidence on 14 April 2026 (92–78) following widespread fuel price protests, but the narrow margin has raised questions about long-term stability.
The Dáil has 174 seats; the government holds 95 (FF 48 + FG 38 + aligned independents ~9), giving a slim working majority.
Latest Polling (July 2026)
| Party | Poll (Ireland Thinks, 3 Jul) | vs prev poll | vs 2024 Election |
|---|---|---|---|
| FG | 20% | ▲ +1 | ▼ -0.8 |
| SF | 19% | ▼ -1 | — (exact match) |
| FF | 17% | ▲ +1 | ▼ -4.9 |
| SD | 12% | — | ▲ +7.2 |
| Independents | 11% | ▲ +1 | ▼ -2.2 |
| Independent Ireland | 7% | ▼ -2 | ▲ +3.4 |
| Aontú | 6% | — | ▲ +2.1 |
| Labour | 3% | — | ▼ -1.7 |
| Green Party | 3% | — | — |
| PBP–Solidarity | 2% | — | ▼ -0.8 |
Trend — MAJOR SHIFT (4 Jul): FG (20%) has overtaken SF (19%) as the most popular party for the first time in months, according to the Sunday Independent/Ireland Thinks poll (3 Jul, n=1,279, MoE ±2.8%). SF falls below 20% — a significant drop from 2024 election levels and a reversal of the post-election SF surge. FF steady at 17%. SD remain at 12% — their strongest sustained position. Holly Cairns remains most popular leader (40%), while Mary Lou McDonald's approval falls to 30%. Jim O'Callaghan (52%) emerges as clear favourite to succeed Martin as FF leader. The three-party combined FF+FG+SF vote (56%) remains compressed vs historical norms; fragmentation continues.
2024 General Election Result
| Party | Leader | 1st Pref. % | Seats 2024 | Change vs 2020 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fianna Fáil | Micheál Martin | 21.9% | 48 | ▲ +10 |
| Fine Gael | Simon Harris | 20.8% | 38 | ▲ +3 |
| Sinn Féin | Mary Lou McDonald | 19.0% | 39 | ▲ +2 |
| Social Democrats | Holly Cairns | 4.8% | 12 | ▲ +6 |
| Labour Party | Ivana Bacik | 4.7% | 11 | ▲ +5 |
| Independent Ireland | Michael Collins | 3.6% | 4 | New |
| PBP–Solidarity | Collective | 2.8% | 3 | ▼ -2 |
| Aontú | Peadar Tóibín | 3.9% | 2 | ▲ +1 |
| Green Party | Roderic O'Gorman | 3.0% | 1 | ▼ -11 |
| 100% Redress | Tomás Devine | 0.3% | 1 | New |
| Independents | — | 13.2% | 14 | ▼ -3 |
| Ceann Comhairle | Verona Murphy (Ind) | — | 1 | — |
| Total | 174 |
Turnout: 59.7% (▼ 3pp from 2020) Government formed: 23 January 2025 — FF + FG + Regional Independents
Taoiseach & Cabinet
| Office | Minister | Party |
|---|---|---|
| Taoiseach | Micheál Martin | Fianna Fáil |
| Tánaiste | Simon Harris | Fine Gael |
| Finance | Simon Harris | Fine Gael |
| Foreign Affairs & Trade / Defence | Helen McEntee | Fine Gael |
| Public Expenditure & Digitalisation | Jack Chambers | Fianna Fáil |
| Education & Youth | Hildegarde Naughton | Fine Gael |
| Climate, Energy & Transport | Darragh O'Brien | Fianna Fáil |
| Children, Disability & Equality | Norma Foley | Fianna Fáil |
| Enterprise, Tourism & Employment | Peter Burke | Fine Gael |
| Social Protection / Gaeltacht | Dara Calleary | Fianna Fáil |
| Culture, Communications & Sport | Patrick O'Donovan | Fine Gael |
| Health | Jennifer Carroll MacNeill | Fine Gael |
| Housing, Local Government & Heritage | James Browne | Fianna Fáil |
| Justice, Home Affairs & Migration | Jim O'Callaghan | Fianna Fáil |
| Agriculture, Food & Marine | Martin Heydon | Fine Gael |
| Further & Higher Education | James Lawless | Fianna Fáil |
| Attorney General | Rossa Fanning SC | — |
Key note: Paschal Donohoe resigned as Finance Minister in Nov 2025 to join the World Bank; Simon Harris took over Finance, Helen McEntee moved to Foreign Affairs, Hildegarde Naughton entered cabinet.
Opposition Leaders
| Party | Leader | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sinn Féin | Mary Lou McDonald | Leader of the Opposition |
| Labour Party | Ivana Bacik | |
| Social Democrats | Holly Cairns | |
| Independent Ireland | Michael Collins | |
| PBP–Solidarity | Richard Boyd Barrett / Collective | |
| Aontú | Peadar Tóibín | |
| Green Party | Roderic O'Gorman | Sole TD |
| 100% Redress | Tomás Devine | Single-issue party |
Ceann Comhairle: Verona Murphy (Independent) Leas-Cheann Comhairle: John McGuinness (Fianna Fáil)
Key Political Issues
- Housing Crisis — Chronic undersupply, rising rents, homelessness remain #1 issue. Number of homeless fell slightly to 17,447 (June 2026).
- Health Service (HSE) — Hospital waiting lists, GP shortages, Sláintecare reform
- Cost of Living — Fuel prices dominating late June 2026. National Fuel Protest (M50 blocked 29 Jun). Government deciding on extending/tapering excise cuts — Simon Harris indicates gradual rollback to avoid "cliff-edge".
- Immigration & Asylum — Accommodation crisis for IP applicants, anti-immigration protests (2023–2026), hardening of migration policy. EU Migration Pact now operational (June 2026). ESRI study found immigrants make higher fiscal contribution than Irish-born over past 20 years.
- Climate & Environment — Green Party collapse from 12→1 seat signals voter backlash on climate costs
- EU Presidency — Ireland took over rotating EU Presidency on 1 July 2026 (eighth time). Trio with Lithuania and Greece. Priorities: Competitiveness, Security, Green Transition. Von der Leyen visited Dublin for launch. "Relief for Govt as EU Presidency off to a good start" (RTÉ).
- Neutrality & Defence — Triple Lock reform progressing. Ireland will represent EU in relations with Iran over next six months (from late June).
- Belfast anti-immigration violence — June 2026 stabbing triggered worst rioting in Belfast since 2025. Four nights of unrest (9-12 Jun), 19 arrested, water cannon deployed. Far-right Active Clubs orchestrated violence with AI-generated misinformation.
- Fianna Fáil Leadership — Martin's authority weakened after disastrous presidential campaign (Jim Gavin stunt collapsed amid revelations about personal financial issues). Speculation over post-EU Presidency succession.
Recent Major Stories
||| 15 Jul 2026 | Deportation flight to South Africa cost more than €1m — Harry McGee reports the cost of deporting individuals to South Africa exceeds €1m. (Irish Times) | ||| 15 Jul 2026 | Minister to seek legal advice on publishing potentially 'sensitive' Aughinish Alumina report — Follows earlier indications report will pass to European Commission. (Irish Times) | ||| 15 Jul 2026 | Three departments face closer supervision after exceeding budgets — Irish Times reports tighter financial oversight. (Irish Times) | ||| 15 Jul 2026 | Dunderrow sexual abuse survivors secure mediation process with Government over redress — Mediation agreed for survivors of abuse at Dunderrow. (Irish Times) | ||| 15 Jul 2026 | Disability campaigner Cara Darmody begins third 50-hour protest over 'disgraceful' delays — Continued protest action over disability service delays. (Irish Times) | ||| 15 Jul 2026 | NI: Girl, 8, among three found dead in family home — Tragedy in Northern Ireland. (BBC News NI) | ||| 15 Jul 2026 | Watchdog wants tougher regulation of NI heating oil market — Consumer watchdog calls for tighter rules. (BBC News NI) | ||| 15 Jul 2026 | Police treating Orange hall graffiti as sectarian hate crime — Sectarian incident investigated in NI. (BBC News NI) | ||| 14 Jul 2026 | Dáil goes into summer recess — Dáil adjourns for summer, resumes 14 September. 5 outstanding issues (per RTÉ's Mícheál Lehane): Aughinish report imminent but no "smoking gun" — will pass to European Commission; fuel excise taper from September under review as prices rise; Triple Lock legislation faces unexpected FF backbench resistance over neutrality concerns; Thalidomide apology process agreed by government; Leinster House review (first in 24 years) to begin later this year. Also: Bill Kenneally survivors to receive formal State apology; Cabinet to discuss paid leave for early miscarriage; Cabinet set to criminalise extreme/violent pornography. (RTÉ, Irish Times) | ||| 13 Jul 2026 | 5 outstanding sticky issues as the Dáil recess approaches — Mícheál Lehane identifies 5 issues: Aughinish Alumina report (imminent, within days), fuel excise cuts scheduled for September taper, Triple Lock legislation (expected by end of year), budget planning (energy credits vs tax cuts), and carbon tax pause. Aughinish report expected to present known facts without "smoking gun" then pass to European Commission. Govt aware 2,000 jobs at risk. (RTÉ) | || 12 Jul 2026 | Mick Fealty (Slugger O'Toole): Why SF's citizens' assembly proposal fails — Detailed critique: (1) The bill presumes reunification as destination before citizens are selected — no genuinely open question; (2) It's an opposition private member's bill lacking government authority, repeating Climate Assembly UK's weakness; (3) Unionists have every rational reason to boycott a body whose founding statute presumes their departure from UK. "An assembly missing an entire tradition cannot generate the legitimacy that's the whole point of the exercise." (Slugger O'Toole) | || 12 Jul 2026 | Newton Emerson: SF unity Bill defeat leaves FF/FG unmoved on timetables — Follow-up analysis: SF's urgency approach now countered by FG's competing "blueprint" process due November. The post-vote landscape leaves two competing tracks on unity planning. (Irish News) |||- 11 Jul 2026 — Newton Emerson: SF Irish unity Bill "was a misjudgment, not a masterstroke" — Irish News Saturday columnist argues the Bill backfired: FF/FG were forced into a rare united front, SF failed to peel off any government backbenchers, and the defeat exposed SF's diminished political capital at 19%. Says SF "badly misjudged the political mood." (Irish News) |||- 10-11 Jul 2026 — 45th British-Irish Council summit in Guernsey — Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Tánaiste Simon Harris attend alongside leaders from UK, Scotland, Wales, NI, Isle of Man, Jersey. Themed "Nurturing beginnings: Strengthening early years and family support." Martin meets with Michelle O'Neill (FM) and Emma Little-Pengelly (dFM) on margins — no constitutional breakthrough. (BBC News, Guernsey Press) |||- 10 Jul 2026 — Irish Government announces Annual John Hume Peace Prize — Taoiseach Martin announces the prize in Strasbourg. Funded by Irish Government to honour Hume's legacy. Welcomed by SDLP's Colum Eastwood and John Hume Jr. (Slugger O'Toole, European Parliament) ||- 10 Jul 2026 — Assembly launches review into Donaldson's behaviour while MLA — NI Assembly opens investigation into disgraced former DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson's conduct during his time as an MLA. (BBC News NI) ||- 9 Jul 2026 — Child safety expert to lead review into DUP and Jeffrey Donaldson — DUP commissions independent review into what the party knew about Donaldson's behaviour and when. Child protection specialist appointed to lead. (BBC News NI) ||- 9 Jul 2026 — Urgent Question on Steel Tariffs and Northern Ireland in Commons — House of Commons discusses implications of US steel tariffs on NI industry. (BBC Parliament) ||- 8 Jul 2026 — Questions build for DUP over further Donaldson allegations — New allegation emerges: woman claims Donaldson sexually assaulted her in Westminster DUP offices. DUP review now covers additional claims. (BBC News NI) ||- 8 Jul 2026 — SF Irish Unity Bill DEFEATED in Dáil — FF/FG vote against — Sinn Féin's Planning for Constitutional Change Bill (compelling Taoiseach to produce Green Paper within 18 months and establish Citizens' Assembly) defeated after Dáil debate. FF/FG argued against "arbitrary timelines" and said a citizens' assembly was not the "appropriate mechanism." Taoiseach Martin: "The idea we can finish building rigorous and independent data in 18 months is obviously not serious." Tánaiste Harris said he wants a united Ireland but doesn't support the bill: "I do not believe that constitutional change should be tied to arbitrary timelines." Social Democrats, Labour and Green Party supported the bill. Mary Lou McDonald called the government's opposition "astonishing" and said "they cannot vote down the future." (BBC News NI, RTÉ, Slugger O'Toole, The National) ||- 8 Jul 2026 — MEPs vote in favour of ban on alumina exports to Russia — European Parliament votes to ban Irish alumina exports linked to Aughinish Alumina controversy. Estonia had proposed the ban. (RTÉ, Irish Times) ||- 7 Jul 2026 — Dáil debates Sinn Féin Irish Unity Bill at second stage — Mary Lou McDonald's Private Members' Bill to compel Government to plan for constitutional change goes to full second-stage debate. Bill would compel Taoiseach to publish Green Paper and establish all-island Citizens' Assembly including unionist voices. Vote expected Wednesday 8 July. FF/FG expected to oppose or heavily amend. McDonald publishes op-ed in Irish News calling it "unprecedented opportunity." (Irish News, Oireachtas) ||- 7 Jul 2026 — Heatwave advisory issued across Ireland — Met Éireann issues heatwave warning as temperatures expected to exceed 28°C for several days. (RTÉ, BBC) ||- 7 Jul 2026 — Nigel Farage to resign as MP, will run for re-election — Farage announces plan to trigger by-election in Clacton and stand again. (Slugger O'Toole, BBC) |- 6 Jul 2026 — Taoiseach Micheál Martin addresses EU Parliament on Ireland's Council Presidency priorities — Martin presents the six-month agenda covering competitiveness, security, and green transition. Ireland's eighth EU Presidency is the first item on the Strasbourg plenary agenda. (European Parliament) |- 6 Jul 2026 — Guardian: Celtic nations begin to plan for breakup of UK in event of Reform election win — Major feature (4 Jul) reports political leaders across Ireland, NI, Scotland and Wales are gaming constitutional collapse if Nigel Farage's Reform UK wins the next election. Mark Drakeford warns English nationalism could push out Scotland and NI. Jim O'Callaghan (Justice Minister) says Dublin should begin preparing for unification. SDLP's Claire Hanna warns NI subvention (£6-20bn/year) could become a "political football" for Farage. (Guardian, Rory Carroll & Lisa O'Carroll)
- 5 Jul 2026 — FG overtakes SF as most popular party in new Ireland Thinks poll — Sunday Independent/Ireland Thinks (3 Jul): FG 20% (+1), SF 19% (-1), FF 17% (+1), SD 12% (NC), Ind/IRL 7% (-2), Aontú 6% (NC). Holly Cairns (40%) most popular leader; Mary Lou McDonald (30%) drops to lowest approval. Jim O'Callaghan (52%) clear favourite for next FF leader. (RTÉ) |- 5 Jul 2026 — Dáil scheduled to debate SF Irish Unity Bill on Tuesday 7 July — Sinn Féin's Private Members' Bill mandating government planning for constitutional change scheduled for second-stage debate. Debate began 7 Jul; vote expected 8 Jul. (Sinn Féin / Oireachtas) |- 5 Jul 2026 — Xinhua: Fine Gael narrowly leads in latest Irish opinion poll — Chinese state media covers the polling shift. (Xinhua) |- 8 Jul 2026 — More in Common poll: 62% in NI support border immigration checks even if creates harder border — Post-riot survey (n=1,000) finds 62% back immigration checks on border with ROI. Nationalist voters split 45%/44%. Racism now viewed as serious as sectarianism (76% vs 73%). 78% concerned about illegal immigration. 44% rank immigration among top 3 issues. 62% describe June riots as "riots not protests." (Belfast Live, More in Common) |- 4 Jul 2026 — Irish authorities planning for Donald Trump visit in September — Security and diplomatic preparations underway for a potential presidential visit. (Pat Leahy, Irish Times)
- 4 Jul 2026 — MEPs to vote on resolution calling for ban on Irish exports of alumina to Russia — Linked to Aughinish Alumina controversy. Estonia proposed ban in confidential talks. (Irish Times)
- 3 Jul 2026 — Von der Leyen in Dublin: Aughinish probe 'for Ireland to lead' — EU Commission President visits Government Buildings for EU Presidency launch. Says investigation into Russian-linked alumina plant is Ireland's to lead. (RTÉ)
- 3 Jul 2026 — Ireland's EU membership story a compelling argument for expanding union, von der Leyen says — At Dublin event marking start of Irish EU Presidency. (Irish Times)
- 2 Jul 2026 — EU to consider Occupied Territories trade ban — McEntee — Helen McEntee pushes EU-level trade measures on Israeli settlements. (RTÉ)
- 1 Jul 2026 — Ireland's EU Presidency officially begins — Sixth rotating presidency. Trio with Lithuania and Greece. Priorities: Competitiveness, Security, Green Transition. "Relief for Govt as EU Presidency off to a good start" (RTÉ analysis).
- 1 Jul 2026 — Over 90% of women TDs, senators experience abuse online — RTÉ survey highlights scale of online abuse in politics.
- 30 Jun 2026 — New guidelines for one-off rural housing to come before Cabinet — Harry McGee reports planning reforms imminent. (Irish Times)
- 30 Jun 2026 — Cuts to fuel taxes won't be fully reversed until after Budget — Coalition leaders decide on phased approach. (Irish Times)
- 30 Jun 2026 — Measures "in place" to ensure Irish safety during EU presidency — Minister for Defence confirms security preparations. (Irish Times)
- 29 Jun 2026 — Government unlikely to pursue drug decriminalisation proposals — Pat Leahy reports coalition won't follow through. (Irish Times)
- 29 Jun 2026 — Fuel excise cuts likely to be extended and tapered off — Government response to National Fuel Protest (M50 blocked, third day of disruption). Simon Harris indicates gradual rollback to avoid "cliff-edge". (Irish Times)
- 29 Jun 2026 — Ireland to represent EU in relations with Iran over next six months — Foreign policy role ahead of EU Presidency. McEntee to lead. (Irish Times)
- 29 Jun 2026 — Pat Rabbitte: "The ultra left is nihilist" — Former Labour minister outlines why a broad left alliance won't happen. (Irish Times)
- 26 Jun 2026 — New Irish passport launched — Minister Helen McEntee launches redesigned passport at Balbriggan Passport Office. Features Irish wolfhound imagery, advanced security features. Passport fees drop €7-9 (adult booklet now €48). (gov.ie)
- 25 Jun 2026 — Donaldson asks to forfeit knighthood voluntarily — Former DUP leader personally requests renunciation of his 2016 knighthood and Privy Council seat, pre-empting calls by other unionist leaders. (BBC)
- 25 Jun 2026 — SDLP "Future of These Islands: Preparing for Change" conference at The MAC, Belfast. Speakers include Leo Varadkar, Claire Hanna, Jim O'Callaghan, Liz Saville-Roberts. SDLP positioning on unity: persuasion over rushed timelines.
- 24 Jun 2026 — Dáil sitting — summer session begins after the June break. Leaders' Questions, Order of Business, Bills for Introduction.
- 23 Jun 2026 — Calls for Donaldson's knighthood to be revoked — DUP's Robinson, UUP's Burrows, TUV's Allister all call for forfeiture. Allister tables Commons motion. Forfeiture Committee process triggered automatically.
- 22 Jun 2026 — Jeffrey Donaldson found guilty of all 18 charges including rape — Former DUP leader convicted at Newry Crown Court. Jury of 5 women and 7 men deliberated 10+ hours. 1 count of rape, 13 indecent assault, 4 gross indecency. Remanded in custody. Judge: "lengthy sentence of imprisonment" inevitable. Sentencing 25 September. Placed on sex offenders register. Wife Eleanor found to have aided/abetted via "trial of the facts" (non-criminal process due to mental health concerns).
- 22 Jun 2026 — Shared Island Initiative funding passes €1bn — Cabinet approves €377m in new cross-border funding. (RTÉ)
- 18 Jun 2026 — Dáil approves SF bill removing 3-day abortion wait (86-70) — Bill to committee; could be law by end of year. (RTÉ)
- 18 Jun 2026 — Alliance may quit Executive without reforms — Eóin Tennyson's first formal warning. (BBC)
- 17 Jun 2026 — ICRIR: Irish govt not cooperating on legacy cases — Sir Declan Morgan tells Stormont committee. (BBC)
- 16 Jun 2026 — Mary Lou McDonald introduces Bill in Dáil to legislate for Irish unity planning — Private Members' Bill to compel government to plan for constitutional change. Dáil backs motion.
- 16 Jun 2026 — Harris: "No one political party owns conversation on Irish unity" — Following his blueprint announcement. (Belfast Telegraph)
- 15 Jun 2026 — Martin: Irish border is "wrong issue" after Belfast stabbing — Pushes back on DUP CTA border review calls. (Evening Standard)
- 15 Jun 2026 — NI minimum criminal age rise to 14 blocked by petition of concern — DUP/TUV/UUP veto. SF MLAs walk out. (BBC)
- 14 Jun 2026 — Irish government survives no-confidence vote (92-78) over fuel protests — narrow majority raises stability questions.
- 14 Jun 2026 — Simon Harris announces Fine Gael 'blueprint for a unified island' — Due November. Led by Prof Deirdre Heenan. (Belfast Live)
- 1 Jul 2026 — Ireland's EU Presidency officially begins — Sixth rotating presidency. Trio with Lithuania and Greece.
Timeline
2026
||| Date | Event | |||------|-------| |||| 15 Jul | Deportation flight to South Africa cost more than €1m — Harry McGee, Irish Times. | |||| 15 Jul | Minister seeks legal advice on Aughinish Alumina report publication — Irish Times. | |||| 15 Jul | Three departments face closer budget supervision — After exceeding budgets. (Irish Times) | |||| 15 Jul | Dunderrow abuse survivors secure mediation with Govt — Irish Times. | |||| 15 Jul | Cara Darmody begins 3rd 50-hour protest — Disability campaign. (Irish Times) | |||| 15 Jul | NI: Girl, 8, among three found dead in family home — BBC News NI. | |||| 15 Jul | NI watchdog calls for tougher heating oil regulation — BBC News NI. | |||| 15 Jul | Police treat Orange hall graffiti as sectarian hate crime — BBC News NI. | |||| 14 Jul | Dáil summer recess; adjourns until 14 Sep — Kenneally State apology; Aughinish report imminent; Triple Lock faces FF backbench resistance. (RTÉ) | || 13 Jul | 5 outstanding sticky issues as Dáil recess approaches — Aughinish report imminent, fuel excise taper, Triple Lock, Thalidomide, Leinster House review. (RTÉ) | |||| 12 Jul | Mick Fealty (Slugger): Why SF's citizens' assembly proposal fails — Presumes destination, lacks govt authority, unionist boycott risk. (Slugger) | ||| 12 Jul | Newton Emerson: SF unity Bill defeat leaves FF/FG unmoved on timetables — Two competing tracks on unity planning now established. (Irish News) | ||| 10-11 Jul | 45th British-Irish Council summit in Guernsey — Martin, Harris, O'Neill, Little-Pengelly attend. Themed on early years/family support. No constitutional breakthrough. (BBC) | |||| 10 Jul | Irish Government announces Annual John Hume Peace Prize — Announced in Strasbourg by Martin. (Slugger O'Toole) | |||| 9 Jul | Child safety expert to lead DUP review into Donaldson — Independent review commissioned. (BBC) | |||| 9 Jul | Assembly launches review into Donaldson's behaviour while MLA (BBC) | |||| 8 Jul | Further Donaldson allegations emerge — Westminster sex assault claim — New allegation from woman claiming assault in DUP offices. (BBC) | ||| 8 Jul | SF Irish Unity Bill DEFEATED in Dáil — FF/FG vote against — Martin: bill would "do little to achieve its objective." Harris: "doesn't support" but wants unity. SD/Labour/Greens supported. McDonald calls opposition "astonishing." (BBC, RTÉ, Slugger) | ||| 8 Jul | MEPs vote in favour of ban on alumina exports to Russia — Linked to Aughinish plant controversy. (RTÉ) | ||| 7 Jul | Dáil debates SF Irish Unity Bill at second stage — McDonald's bill to compel govt planning for constitutional change. Vote expected 8 Jul. (Irish News, Oireachtas) | ||| 7 Jul | Heatwave advisory issued across Ireland — Met Éireann warning, temps >28°C. (RTÉ, BBC) | ||| 7 Jul | Nigel Farage to resign as MP, will run for re-election in Clacton — By-election triggered. (Slugger O'Toole, BBC) | |||| 6 Jul | Taoiseach Martin addresses EU Parliament on Ireland's EU Presidency priorities — First item on Strasbourg plenary. (European Parliament) | |||| 6 Jul | Guardian: Celtic nations plan for UK breakup if Reform wins next election — Drakeford, O'Callaghan, Hanna warn about Farage-led constitutional turmoil. (Guardian) | ||| 4 Jul | Irish authorities planning for Donald Trump visit in September — Security preparations underway. (Irish Times) | || 4 Jul | MEPs to vote on resolution banning Irish alumina exports to Russia — Estonia proposed ban. (Irish Times) | || 3 Jul | Von der Leyen in Dublin for EU Presidency launch — Aughinish probe "for Ireland to lead". (RTÉ) | || 3 Jul | Von der Leyen: Ireland's EU membership story compelling argument for expanding union (Irish Times) | || 2 Jul | EU to consider Occupied Territories trade ban — McEntee (RTÉ) | || 1 Jul | Ireland's EU Presidency officially begins — Sixth rotating presidency. Trio with Lithuania and Greece. (RTÉ analysis) | || 1 Jul | Over 90% of women TDs/senators experience abuse online — RTÉ survey. | || 30 Jun | New rural housing guidelines to come before Cabinet — Planning reforms imminent. (Irish Times) | || 30 Jun | Fuel tax cuts won't be fully reversed until after Budget — Coalition opts for phased approach. (Irish Times) | || 30 Jun | Security measures "in place" for EU presidency — Minister for Defence confirms. (Irish Times) | || 29 Jun | Government unlikely to pursue drug decriminalisation proposals — Irish Times reports coalition won't follow through. (Pat Leahy, Irish Times) | || 29 Jun | Fuel excise cuts likely to be extended and tapered — Government response to National Fuel Protest (third day of disruption). (Irish Times) | || 29 Jun | Ireland to represent EU in relations with Iran — Major foreign policy role for McEntee. (Irish Times) | || 29 Jun | Pat Rabbitte: "ultra left is nihilist" — Former Labour minister dismisses broad left alliance prospects. (Irish Times) | || 26 Jun | New Irish passport launched | 25 Jun | Donaldson asks to forfeit knighthood voluntarily — Pre-empts political campaign. (BBC) | | 25 Jun | SDLP "Future of These Islands: Preparing for Change" conference — The MAC, Belfast. Cross-community unity event with Varadkar, Hanna, O'Callaghan, Saville-Roberts. (SDLP) | | 24 Jun | Dáil summer session begins — Leaders' Questions, Order of Business, Bills for Introduction. | | 23 Jun | Calls for Donaldson's knighthood revocation — Robinson (DUP), Burrows (UUP), Allister (TUV). Allister tables Commons motion. Forfeiture Committee triggered automatically. (RTÉ, PA) | | 22 Jun | Donaldson found guilty of all 18 charges including rape — Newry Crown Court. Remanded. Sentencing 25 Sep. (RTÉ, BBC) | | 22 Jun | Shared Island Initiative funding passes €1bn — Cabinet approves €377m new funding. (RTÉ) | | 18 Jun | Dáil approves SF abortion bill removing 3-day wait (86-70) — Bill to committee. (RTÉ) | | 18 Jun | Alliance may quit Executive without reforms — Eóin Tennyson warns. (BBC) | | 18 Jun | TUV MP criticised over 'racist' cartoon posted on social media (BBC) | | 17 Jun | ICRIR: Irish govt not cooperating on legacy cases (BBC) | | 17 Jun | FF WhatsApp group fury at FG 'stealing spotlight' on unity (Irish Examiner) | | 16 Jun | McDonald introduces Unity Planning Bill in Dáil — Dáil backs motion | | 16 Jun | Harris: "No one political party owns conversation on Irish unity" | | 15 Jun | Martin: Irish border "wrong issue" after Belfast stabbing | | 15 Jun | NI minimum criminal age rise to 14 blocked by petition of concern | | 15 Jun | McEntee to press EU on Gaza and Ukraine ahead of EU Presidency | | 15 Jun | Canadian PM Carney returns to Co Mayo — Day 3 state visit | | 14 Jun | Harris announces FG "blueprint for a unified island" — due November | | 14 Jun | Canadian PM Carney on state visit Day 2 | | 13 Jun | EU Migration Pact operational in Ireland — new International Protection Act 2026 | | 12 Jun | PM Starner-Martin call: strengthen CTA through data sharing/intelligence | | 12 Jun | EU Migration & Asylum Pact comes into effect | | 11 Jun | Second night of Belfast riots — water cannon deployed | | 10-13 Jun | Belfast anti-immigration violence — Far-right riots after knife attack. 4 nights, water cannon, 19 arrested. (BBC, Guardian, Al Jazeera) | | 9 Jun | Triple Lock legislation gets formal Cabinet approval | | 9-10 Jun | Belfast anti-immigration protests escalate to riots — 19 arrested by 12 June | | 8 Jun | Ken O'Flynn (IndIre) defends 2,122 PQs in May as AI concerns raised | | 7 Jun | RTÉ analysis: Coalition in 'defensive formation' over Ireland-Israel match | | 5-7 Jun | Ireland bans Israeli ministers Ben-Gvir and Smotrich | | 5 Jun | SDLP Claire Hanna warns against rushed border poll | | 4 Jun | Martin in Budapest — first EU leader to visit since Magyar's election | | 4 Jun | Malcolm Byrne steps down as AI Committee Chair after drink-driving arrest | | 4 Jun | Holly Cairns (SocDems) announces she is expecting second child in October | | 3 Jun | LucidTalk Spring 2026 poll: SF 24%, DUP 18%, UUP 13%, SDLP 11%, Alliance 11%, TUV 11% | | 3 Jun | Naomi Long calls for border poll criteria clarity (BBC Borderland podcast) | | 2 Jun | FF TD Malcolm Byrne arrested on suspicion of drink driving | | 2 Jun | Sinn Féin proposes sweeping Stormont reform — removing mutual vetoes | | 2 Jun | UUP group says Doug Beattie was 'aggressive' at meeting | | 1 Jun | Doug Beattie quits UUP citing 'toxic atmosphere' under Jon Burrows | | 1 Jun | Govt plans to end Triple Lock for overseas troop deployments within weeks | | 31 May | RedC/Business Post poll: SF 21% (-4), FG 17% (+1), FF 15% (-1), SocDems 10% (+2) | | 30 May | SDLP's Patsy McGlone announces retirement from Stormont politics | | 29 May | NI housing waiting list passes 50,000 | | 26 May | Fianna Fáil agrees to support legalising nuclear energy | | 23-24 May | SocDems win Dublin Central by-election (Daniel Ennis); FG holds Galway West (Seán Kyne) | | 14 Apr | Irish government survives no-confidence vote (92-78) after fuel protests | | 2 May | Ireland Thinks/Sunday Independent poll: SF 22%, FF 19%, FG 17%, SD 9% |
2025
|| Date | Event | ||------|-------| || 23 Jan | 35th Government formed — FF + FG + Regional Independents coalition | || Apr | No-confidence vote in Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy defeated (96–71) | || Nov | Paschal Donohoe resigns as Finance Minister; Simon Harris takes over | || Oct | Catherine Connolly elected President with 63.36% of the vote |
2024
|| Date | Event | ||------|-------| || 3 Feb | Stormont restored after two-year DUP boycott; Michelle O'Neill becomes first nationalist First Minister | || Mar | DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson resigns amid historical sex offence charges | || 29 Nov | Irish general election — FF wins 48, FG 38, SF 39, SocDems 12, Labour 11 |
Reddit Discussion
Source: Reddit — JSON API blocked by Reddit. Direct fetch attempts timed out. Data below from cached/pre-existing scrape (May-June 2026).
Northern Ireland 🇬🇧🇮🇪
- Donaldson found guilty (22 Jun) — Major discussion on implications for unionism. DUP under Robinson now rebuilding credibility.
- Indian woman's car burned by racist mob (r/northernireland, 19 Jun) — 2.3k upvotes, high engagement. Ongoing far-right aftermath.
- UK MP responds on border poll criteria (r/northernireland, 19 Jan) — Discussion on GFA mechanisms and whether UK gov has intention of calling poll.
- "Irish unity is not inevitable" — David McCann video — 127 upvotes, 173 comments.
- "Irish unity must let Protestants stay British if they want, says GAA president" — 137 upvotes, 143 comments.
- "Irish language should not be 'bargaining chip' for a united Ireland" — 74 upvotes, 75 comments.
- Inside the civil war that ripped apart the DUP (Belfast Telegraph feature) — Discussion of Donaldson era and post-Donaldson DUP.
Republic of Ireland 🇮�
- Bill Kenneally scandal — ex-Waterford FF TD who failed to report abuse (r/ireland, 19 Jun) — 1.4k upvotes. Major FF embarrassment.
- Sinn Féin MEP sues Government over CETA (r/ireland, r/irishpolitics, 19 Jun) — SF MEP launches legal challenge.
- Aviva Stadium protest (r/ireland) — 444 upvotes, 149 comments. ROI vs Qatar friendly halted.
- Data centres leading to energy cost hike (r/ireland) — 138 upvotes, 72 comments.
- Electric Ireland raises energy prices by 8% — 135 upvotes, 123 comments.
- "Left-wing parties round on Sinn Féin over policy direction" (r/ireland, 26 May) — 68 upvotes, 124 comments.
- SocDems surge / SF stagnation threads — Major discussion on shifting left flank.
UK Politics (cross-border relevance)
- Ex-DUP chief found guilty of sexual abuse (r/ukpolitics) — POLITICO reporting on Donaldson trial.
- Makerfield by-election (r/ukpolitics) — Labour vs Reform contest, Andy Burnham polling.
Sources
- Wikipedia: 2024 Irish General Election
- Wikipedia: 35th Government of Ireland
- Wikipedia: Next Irish General Election
- Wikipedia: Government of the 34th Dáil
- Wikipedia: Opinion polling on a United Ireland
- Wikipedia: 7th Northern Ireland Assembly
- irishpolitics.ie — aggregated polling data
- BBC News Ireland / BBC News Northern Ireland
- The Irish Times
- RTÉ News
- The Irish News / Belfast Telegraph
- Politico EU
- FactCheckNI
- Reddit r/ireland, r/northernireland, r/ukpolitics
- Fuzion Communications analysis
- POBAL / ARINS / Institute of Irish Studies
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