Irish Examiner view: Lessons to learn from devolved power

Support for 'Dublin-centric' Fine Gael stands at just 19%

Sinn Féin led by Mary Lou McDonald is topping the opinion polls. Picture: Brian Lawless/PA 

If we accept the commentary surrounding the apparent collapse of support for Fine Gael as expressed in the most recent opinion poll, which suggested an approval rate of just 19%, then those critics who say that the party has become too “Dublin-centric” now have the upper hand.

In the online Red C poll carried out for the Business Post, which surveyed 1,001 adults aged over 18 between March 18-23, Sinn Fein remained the most popular party by a considerable distance, coming in at 33%. Support for Fianna Fáil sits at 16% and the Green Party, led by Eamon Ryan, remains at 5%. Independents have an 11% share.