Inside Politics with Hugh Linehan

In the first of a series with the leaders of the three largest political parties, Taoiseach Simon Harris sat down with Hugh Linehan to answer questions submitted by Inside Politics podcast listeners on issues including taxation, housing, threats to Ireland’s economy, why Ireland does not facilitate overseas voting, and more.He revealed that he is not in favour of forming a coalition with a left-wing alliance of more than one party, a concept proposed by Labour leader Ivana Bacik, and sees a coalition of four parties or more as unstable. He also shared the qualities he admires in political opponents Mary Lou McDonald, Micheál Martin, Holly Cairns and Ivana Bacik. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jennifer Bray and Harry McGee join Hugh for a look at today's events on the campaign trail:Mary Lou McDonald showed how effective a campaigner and political communicator she can be while meeting students at DCU.Aontú launched its manifesto, but at first there was one thing missing - the manifesto itself.Fianna Fáil launched its plan for Dublin city, a place it has struggled to recover seats in since its 2011 nadir. Can the party make inroads in the capital?Plus Harry reminisces on that fraught 2011 election campaign.Over on irishtimes.com there are excellent resources for following the election:Constituencies - every candidate listed, every constituency analysed with a 'prediction / possible outcome'.Party Promises - compare the manifestos using this handy tool.Who should I vote for? Compare your views with parties and candidates.The Irish Times poll, current and archive.Election Daily podcast - all the episodes.Meet the Voters - our correspondents have been out and about meeting real people and discussing real issues, including taking the temperature with The Irish Times voter panel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this discussion, Pat Leahy, a seasoned journalist from the Irish Times, sheds light on the evolving political landscape in Ireland. He tackles the implications of Donald Trump's reelection on Ireland's economy and the growing uncertainty surrounding it. A key point of interest is Sinn Féin's call for a peer review of RTÉ's Gaza coverage, raising questions about media bias and political motivations. Leahy also critiques the Labour Party's coalition strategies and the Green Party's positioning, offering insights into the complex dynamics of governance.

Cliff Taylor, an economics columnist for The Irish Times, Shana Cohen, Director at TASC, and John McHale, Professor of Economics at University of Galway, dissect Ireland's precarious economic model. They explore the implications of ambitious party spending promises amid reliance on corporate tax revenues. The discussion highlights the tension between necessary infrastructure investments and the sustainability of these expenditures, especially in light of global economic pressures. Concerns over tax system vulnerabilities and economic inequality add depth to their analysis.

Jennifer Bray, a keen Irish Times journalist, joins the discussion to dissect the tension-packed political landscape. The recent leaders' debate saw Micheal Martin and Simon Harris effectively counter Mary Lou McDonald, showcasing their strategies. Labour's Ivana Bacik aims for collaborative negotiations, but will other leftist parties comply? Sinn Féin's manifesto reveals surprising pledges on taxation and homelessness, adding heat to their rivalry. Meanwhile, the atmosphere reflects growing voter apathy amid these high-stakes dynamics.

Pat Leahy, a seasoned Irish Times journalist, joins the discussion to shed light on the current political landscape. They dive into the Labour Party's bold manifesto launch, contrasting it with Fine Gael's approach to housing. The conversation unpacks the implications of John McGahan’s controversial past on Fine Gael's reputation. Amidst talk of ambitious housing goals, they address the party dynamics and mounting skepticism toward policy proposals, offering a deep dive into the challenges facing Ireland's political future.

Jack Horgan-Jones, a keen observer of the election campaign, joins political analyst Cormac McQuinn for a deep dive into the unfolding electoral drama. They discuss Fine Gael's focus on law-and-order and its potential to resonate with voters. The conversation shifts to the cost-of-living crisis and whether politicians are adequately addressing it amid proposals like phasing out third-level fees. Lastly, Mick Wallace's unexpected candidacy in Wexford adds an intriguing twist to the election landscape.

Politician journalist Pat Leahy dives into the latest Irish Times/Ipsos B&A poll, revealing a notable increase in support for independent candidates. He discusses how these independents are focusing on local issues and could shape the next government. The conversation highlights shifting voter loyalties, especially as upcoming elections draw near, and the contrasting support patterns in urban and rural areas. Excitement builds for the electoral campaign as major parties brace for competition from these emerging voices.

Jennifer Bray, a political correspondent for the Irish Times, and Pat Leahy, its political editor, join Hugh to discuss the latest in Irish politics. They dive into Simon Harris's proposal to remove the means test for the carer's allowance and the associated costs. The duo analyzes Sinn Féin's revamped immigration policy, emphasizing collaboration over rivalry between major parties. Their discussion highlights urgent themes like housing and reflects on the evolving dynamic between Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil, blending insights with engaging commentary.

Jack Horgan-Jones, an Irish Times journalist and nominee for Political Correspondent of the Year, and Jennifer Bray, a political analyst for the same publication, dive into the housing crisis dominating the election. They dissect Eoghan Murphy's candid acknowledgment that his party overlooked housing, sparking fierce debates between Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael. Additionally, they evaluate Sinn Féin's defense against past criticisms and how rising rents are shaping the landscape for younger voters, all amidst a backdrop of intensifying political rivalries.