31st Dáil - National interest is paramount

STABLE government was an election demand on the lips of voters in every corner of Ireland and the first step towards delivering that rare attribute will be taken in Dáil Éireann today when Deputy Enda Kenny becomes Taoiseach and leader of a Fine Gael-Labour coalition with a thumping majority at his command.

A TD who himself languished on the opposition benches for most of the longest political career in the Dáil, Mr Kenny is acutely aware that holding government to account is a central plank of democracy. However, as he assumes power, there is a perceived risk that with Fine Gael and Labour holding such an overwhelming majority, the opposition could be deliberately stifled.

That would be a grave error of judgment. Notwithstanding their desire for stability, the Irish people have elected so many independents, it is patently obvious they want them to have a meaningful say in the future of a country where the banks are on the brink and the economy is in crisis.