Poll Reveals Majority of Irish Public Wants Micheál Martin to Resign

A recent poll conducted by the Sunday Independent and Ireland Thinks indicates that a significant portion of the Irish public, specifically 49 percent, believes that Micheál Martin should step down as the leader of Fianna Fáil. This sentiment arises in the wake of a scandal involving the party’s presidential candidate, Jim Gavin, who withdrew from the race after it was revealed he owed over €3,000 to a former tenant.

Despite this, support for Martin has seen a slight increase, rising by three percentage points to 36 percent compared to the previous month. The poll results suggest that while some constituents rally behind Martin, a considerable number are dissatisfied with his leadership following the recent controversies.

Public Sentiment and Future Leadership

The poll reveals that 33 percent of respondents believe Martin should resign in November 2024, coinciding with the anticipated transition of Simon Harris to the role of Taoiseach. Furthermore, a striking 68 percent of those surveyed hold Martin accountable for the missteps surrounding the party’s presidential campaign, while only 14 percent attribute the blame to Gavin and 5 percent to Jack Chambers, the director of elections.

A report detailing the scandal has faced delays, as Gavin’s legal representatives have requested to review it before its public release, causing frustration among members of the parliamentary party.

Overall support for Fianna Fáil appears to have improved slightly, with the party’s backing increasing by two points to 20 percent. This uptick comes at a time when support for rival party Fine Gael is waning, with only 17 percent of respondents expressing their support, marking the party’s lowest standing since January 2016.

Leadership Approval Ratings

Harris’s appointment as Finance Minister has not been well received, with 70 percent of those polled expressing dissatisfaction. Only 15 percent support his shift from Foreign Affairs to Finance, while another 15 percent remain indifferent. Notably, among Fine Gael voters, 47 percent approved of the move, indicating a divide in support within the party.

Harris’s popularity is also declining, maintaining a record low approval rating of 34 percent. In contrast, Holly Cairns of the Social Democrats has emerged as the most popular leader among the five major parties, garnering support from 40 percent of respondents. Mary Lou McDonald, leader of Sinn Féin, follows closely at 37 percent, while Ivana Bacik of Labour has 33 percent support.

These results highlight the shifting political landscape in Ireland, reflecting both the challenges facing current leaders and the evolving preferences of the electorate. As the political climate continues to fluctuate, the decisions made by party leaders and their ability to maintain public support will be crucial in the lead-up to the next elections.