Inside Politics with Hugh Linehan Will global turmoil matter to Irish politics in 2026?
Jan 14, 2026
Pat Leahy, political editor at the Irish Times, and Jack Horgan-Jones, its political correspondent, explore pressing challenges in Irish politics ahead of 2026. They discuss how global turmoil may not overshadow domestic issues, especially in housing and health. The duo emphasizes the need for clearer communication from the government and the political risks surrounding key ministers. They also delve into the repercussions of US economic policies on Ireland and the complexities of managing housing supply amid international investment pressures.
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Domestic Issues Will Dominate 2026
- Irish politics will focus on domestic issues in 2026 despite global turmoil.
- International events only materially matter when they hit the Irish economy, especially corporation tax receipts.
Openness Makes Ireland Vulnerable
- Geopolitical upheaval matters to Ireland when it causes economic shocks like energy or markets disruption.
- Ireland's extreme openness makes it especially vulnerable to global monetary and trade disturbances.
Don't Let Global Fear Freeze Domestic Action
- Governments should avoid paralysis from international uncertainty and act on domestic priorities.
- Get moving quickly on housing and infrastructure rather than waiting for clearer global signals.