Poll shows Government performance approval

There has been a sharp increase in satisfaction with the Government and with the performance of the Taoiseach and Tánaiste.

According to an opinion poll in today's Sunday Independent, overall satisfaction with the coalition is at 45%.

The Millward Brown IMS poll was taken last Wednesday and Thursday, before Government spending plans were published.

Compared with the last poll taken in March, the rate of satisfaction with the Taoiseach Bertie Ahearn has increased by 12 points to 55%.

Mary Harney's performance rating as Tánaiste has also seen an increase by 10 points to 55%.

The poll has also shown that Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny's approval has moved from 32% to 45% in the same period and Pat Rabbitte, leader of the Labour party has seen a seven point change upwards to 53%.

Overall, the poll shows that Fianna Fáil is bouncing back from its record low of 32% in June's local elections.