Both Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael came under tremendous pressure about Lowry’s involvement in government formation. It was quantum politics from TDs who seemed to want to exist in two states at once; Government and Opposition. The former GAA boss dramatically dropped out of the race, and plunged Fianna Fáil into a state of furious misery. As it faces its centenary year in 2026, Fianna Fáil may now be on the brink of ousting its longest-serving leader after Éamon de Valera. In the mini-reshuffle that followed, Fine Gael leader Simon Harris appointed himself to the freshly vacated role of Minister for Finance.

Source: The Irish Times December 20, 2025 18:00 UTC