But Mr Boyd Barrett said it was still worth “exploring” the possibility of a minority administration. Sinn Fein President Mary Lou McDonald has indicated a desire to be Ireland’s next taoiseach (Niall Carson/PA). Sinn Fein supporters enjoyed a landmark election (Niall Carson/PA)Despite receiving the most first preference votes, Sinn Fein’s place in the next government is not guaranteed. Either Fianna Fail or Fine Gael may be forced to backtrack on long-standing pledges never to do business with Sinn Fein. Sinn Fein received 24.5pc of the vote share on first preference in the election, Fianna Fail got 22.2pc and Fine Gael 20.9pc.

Source: Irish Independent February 12, 2020 09:11 UTC