Government talks - FF remains the only game in town

SERIOUS negotiations or a smokescreen? This burning question is prompted by the “cordial” exploratory talks now going on between Fianna Fáil and Greens on the colour of the next coalition arrangement.

While sufficient common ground exists for talking, it is far from clear whether the parties can bridge the yawning gulf between them on key policy issues.

Demanding concessions on environmental questions, transport and the road network, agriculture and planning, the Greens also want to see an end to corporate donations for political parties, an issue close to FF hearts.

The question of a smokescreen cannot be entirely dismissed, because the Fianna Fáil team is also having parallel talks with two PDs, the remnants of that party, and several independent TDs from the FF gene pool. Their demands could be diminished by the presence of the Greens.

Despite Fine Gael’s 20-seat electoral gain and Enda Kenny’s stubborn efforts to form an alternative administration, the party looks destined to spend the next five years on the opposition benches.

Barring new bombshells about the Taoiseach’s personal finances from the Mahon Tribunal, Fianna Fáil remains the only game in town.