Rise of independents shows disgust at parties

Following the recent unrest in Labour due to MEP Phil Prendergast’s criticism of Eamon Gilmore’s leadership, it has highlighted a common thread that explains the rise of independents.

Opinion polls suggest surges in support for Sinn Féin and independents. I suspect the opinion poll gains for Sinn Féin are soft, and will not actually materialise into marked vote increases, but there is on-the-ground support for independents.

Labour, in particular, have shipped many defectors, including the departures of Willie Penrose and Colm Keaveney. Although Penrose re-joined the parliamentary party last October, the trouble in the party has been evident for a long time. Keaveney left on principle after voting against the Government on the respite care grant, but others hold their tongue so as to retain the party whip. This type of behaviour has turned the public against many party politicians.