The Pat Kenny Show A review of the year in politics
Dec 24, 2025
Pat Leahy, Political Editor at the Irish Times, shares insights into a tumultuous year for Irish politics. He discusses Catherine Connolly's presidency and the fallout from a failed Fianna Fáil campaign. The heated Dáil speaking rights row featuring Michael Lowry garners attention. Shifts in immigration policy and rising debates around the topic highlight changes in public sentiment. Leahy also critiques the government's housing efforts, noting which ministers shined and which struggled in their roles. A deep dive into the year's key political events ensures a lively recap.
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Kenny Jacobs Suspension And Settlement Row
- Kenny Jacobs was suspended by a board decision amid a long dispute and a proposed near-million euro settlement.
- The Transport Minister vetoed that settlement and further court action now seems likely.
Speaking Rights Row Shaped The Year
- The Dáil speaking rights row set the political tone for the year with Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and Michael Lowry aligned against a united left opposition.
- That parliamentary clash foreshadowed divisions that influenced later contests like the presidential race.
Migration Entered Mainstream Debate
- Immigration moved from fringe to mainstream political debate, driven by local events such as City West.
- Ireland has trended rightward on migration compared with its recent past, though less extremely than other European states.