Mr Martin has pointed out that governing parties seldom fare well in by-elections, and this is largely true. Her victory is shared by the Labour Party, the oldest political party in the State, which has experienced significant setbacks in recent elections. Once an arch-party of the centre of the political landscape in Ireland, Fianna Fáil has fallen mightily from that lofty position. However, the country can ill afford a bout of Fianna Fáil infighting. Mr Martin is scheduled to lead the country for the next 18 months.

Source: Irish Independent July 11, 2021 01:30 UTC