Adams’s personal approval ratings tumble in wake of Northern Bank robbery

SINN FÉIN leader Gerry Adams’ personal approval rating has tumbled dramatically in the wake of the IRA being blamed for the Northern Bank robbery, according to a new nationwide opinion poll, which also shows a strong resurgence by the Government.

Mr Adams, who has always received high approval ratings for leadership, has seen his support fall nine points since last October, from 51% to 42%, in the latest Irish Times/TNS mrbi poll. Significantly, 38% of those polled say they are dissatisfied with Mr Adams. Other major findings of the poll will provide a strong fillip for the Coalition parties, with a marked rise in satisfaction since October, plus increases of support levels for Fianna Fáil and the Progressive Democrats.

Voter satisfaction with the Government is 52%, a nine point increase since October and also the highest level of satisfaction the Government has attained since the General Election of May 2002. The poll indicates that the slump in support for both parties in the local and European elections has been reversed.