FF maintains control of Seanad despite two losses

FIANNA FÁIL last night retained majority control of the Seanad despite the loss of two seats over the course of the four-day count.

Having lost 100 seats in the 2004 local elections, Fianna Fáil’s voting strength in the Seanad election was reduced by 20%. However, with the extra 50 votes from the Green Party and PDs, the party emerged with its majority intact having held onto 22 of its 24 seats.

With the Taoiseach empowered to appoint 11 senators, the Government’s tally will come to 33 — a comfortable majority in the 60-seat chamber.