The Pat Kenny Show Today's political roundup with Fionnán Sheehan
Nov 10, 2025
Fionnán Sheehan, Ireland editor with the Irish Independent, dives into the political scene, discussing the surprising delay in Fianna Fáil's presidential election review. He highlights party disappointment with Micheál Martin's leadership and analyzes the pressure for detailed answers on candidate selection. The conversation touches on whether Jim Gavin could have shifted the election dynamics and critiques on Fianna Fáil's handling of the united Ireland debate. Sheehan also emphasizes the urgent need for the government to prioritize housing and childcare improvements.
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Delayed Review Reveals Organisational Strain
- Fianna Fáil's internal review into the presidential election is delayed due to high submission volume and many interview requests.
- The missed Wednesday deadline reflects deeper organisation and timing problems within the party leadership.
Parliamentary Party Wants Hard Answers
- TDs and Senators want specific answers about who approached Jim Gavin and what vetting occurred.
- The parliamentary party expects detailed findings on process failures and campaign spending.
Persisting Might Have Reduced Embarrassment
- Many insiders believe Jim Gavin could have stayed in and weathered the controversy, though it likely wouldn't have changed the result.
- Staying might have spared Fianna Fáil the unique embarrassment of a candidate withdrawing mid-campaign.