DUBLIN, January 22 — Micheál Martin, leader of Fianna Fáil, is expected to be formally nominated as Ireland’s next Taoiseach when the Dáil convenes on Wednesday to appoint a new head of government.
Fianna Fáil emerged as the largest party in the November general election, positioning Martin for leadership. After extensive government formation talks, Fianna Fáil has reached a coalition agreement with Fine Gael, led by outgoing Taoiseach Simon Harris.
The coalition falls slightly short of a majority but will be supported by Independent TDs for the five-year term following protracted negotiations.
The Dáil will meet at 11 a.m. to nominate Mr. Martin as Taoiseach. While Sinn Féin, the largest opposition party, intends to nominate its leader Mary Lou McDonald, the coalition agreement makes Martin’s approval by the Dáil likely.
Upon approval, Martin will travel to Áras an Uachtaráin, where President Michael D. Higgins will sign his warrant of appointment and present him with the Seal of the Taoiseach, officially confirming his leadership by around 2 p.m.
Later that evening, the new Taoiseach will nominate the members of his Cabinet, who will also travel to Áras an Uachtaráin to receive their Seals of Office.
Fianna Fáil is expected to dominate the Cabinet, with some departmental portfolios shifting between Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil. Independent TDs will hold two “super junior” ministries with seats at the table.
The makeup of the Cabinet is being closely watched, as its composition reflects the terms of the coalition negotiations.
Independent TD Michael Lowry played a key role in negotiations on behalf of the Regional Independents Group. Lowry, a controversial figure, was previously described by a tribunal as engaging in “profoundly corrupt” behavior.
Gardaí have sent findings related to the tribunal to the Director of Public Prosecutions, but Lowry denies any liability.
Contention has arisen over Dáil speaking time for government-supporting Independents. Opposition parties, including Sinn Féin, Labour, and the Social Democrats, object to Independents retaining opposition speaking time.
A submission challenging the practice has been filed with Dáil speaker Catherine Murphy, who has indicated she will consider the matter.
Martin (64), who previously served as Taoiseach in a coalition with Fine Gael and the Green Party, brings extensive political experience. As health minister, Martin introduced Ireland’s groundbreaking workplace smoking ban in 2004.
The Cork native and son of an international boxer has also served in cabinet roles in enterprise, foreign affairs, defence, and education.
Fianna Fáil has led the government since 2020 in partnership with Fine Gael, bridging historical divisions dating back to the Civil War of the 1920s.
Under their prior coalition, a rotating Taoiseach system alternated leadership between the two parties, a mechanism set to continue, favouring Fianna Fáil for three years due to its stronger electoral performance.
Outgoing Taoiseach Simon Harris will take on the role of Tánaiste as part of the agreement.
