Policy agreements key to backing of Independents
Finian McGrath made the claim amid a focus on how the recent surge in Independents’ support could impact on the political landscape. Taoiseach Enda Kenny said he is willing to talk to Independents. Amid rumours of at least three loose alliances of Independents and smaller parties being announced in the coming weeks, the Dublin North Central TD said the groups could make a potentially election-winning deal with bigger parties.
However, in a word of warning to Fine Gael, Labour, Fianna Fáil, and Sinn Féin Mr McGrath said support will only be available if “seven or eight” policy points can be agreed with future partners.
While accepting those involved may need to support policies they disagree with as part of any pact, he stressed a key part of any potential agreement must be the fact independents will remain outside any political party.
Mr McGrath is in talks with Independent TDs Shane Ross, Stephen Donnelly, Noel Grealish, and John Halligan about a loose alliance.
The group, led by Mr Ross, claims to have the support of up to 40 Independent councillors, with Mr McGrath saying it could gain “10-12 credible representatives” in the next Dáil who could then present seven or eight policies to another party as part of any coalition negotiations.
The still unconfirmed grouping is one of a number being discussed in the run-up to the general election. While Mr Ross has recently dismissed labels on where it will stand on the political spectrum, it is likely to face competition from ex-Fine Gael TD Lucinda Creighton’s new, unnamed, party.
Ms Creighton yesterday said she will find it “nigh on impossible” to join up with another political party, but stressed influence can be gained in opposition.
“It gives an opportunity to influence the next government in a way that might not have been the case before,” she said.
Finance Minister Michael Noonan said Ms Creighton’s proposed group has not yet announced any policies.
Among other groups being discussed is a loose alliance between the Socialist Party, People before Profit and similarly-viewed left wing TDs — mirroring the short-lived United Alliance Party — which would base itself around anti-austerity and anti-water charge policies.
The Right2Water campaign is also due to finalise plans on whether to run candidates in the next election, while Independent Roscommon–South Leitrim, TD Michael Fitzmaurice is also in discussions over forming a separate coalition.
The latest Red C poll shows Independents/others as the most popular political grouping, at 30%, compared to Fine Gael (21%, down 1%); Sinn Féin (24%, up 2%); Fianna Fáil (19%, up 1%); and Labour (6%, down 2%).
