Irish Examiner poll - Health could be coalition’s Achilles heel

AS the beauty contest for the crucial job of next Taoiseach begins in earnest, today’s Irish Examiner poll provides fascinating insights into how the public regard the two contenders for the highest political office in the land.

Not surprisingly, party supporters favour their own as incumbent Taoiseach Bertie Ahern and Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny gear themselves for next summer’s hustings.

The poll afforded voters a chance to speak their minds on key questions including the trustworthiness of the two men, plus confidence in their ability to do the job, make hard decisions, control crime, guide the economy, manage the healthcare system or provide crisis leadership.