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Elaine Loughlin: Jovial spirit among Fianna Fáil members despite by-election woes

An ard fheis is like a wedding without the bride and groom according to one upbeat TD

Elaine Loughlin: Jovial spirit among Fianna Fáil members despite by-election woes — Some have mused that party leader Micheál Martin will want to remain on until the end of next year when the Taoiseach’s position rotates again or to see out the completion of the Narrow Water Bridge, a passion project of his, which is scheduled to open in late 2027. Picture: Conor Ó Mearáin/PA

Sun, 17 May, 2026 - 17:17

Elaine Loughlin

A century on from its foundation, Fianna Fáil now faces dilemmas of identity, leadership, and direction.

A botched presidential campaign, a gruelling few weeks of fuel protests, and a disgruntled rump of TDs who want Micheál Martin out has taken its toll, especially among elected representatives.

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<p>Taoiseach and Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin at the 84th Fianna Fáil ard fheis in the Dublin Royal Convention Centre. Picture:Conor McCabe Photography</p>

Paul Hosford: Bertie Ahern's impact on Fianna Fáil still lingers

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