Whilst we are on the subject of election date (Taoiseach seems to be setting everything up for a cut and run to the polls after a big slurge at the budget), this protest from Labour Party leader Joan Burton is worth noting:
Sources this morning said Ms Burton had reacted badly to reports of a November election and remains strongly opposed to an election before Christmas.
A meeting of the parliamentary Labour party last night heard a “unanimous” preference from TDs and Senators for an election next spring.
At the meeting, Ms Burton repeated her position that the election should be held next year. TDs and Senators told the meeting it was imperative the banking inquiry complete its work and the legislation to give effect to public sector pay rises agreement was passed.
“There was a real sense of frustration that there is a feeding frenzy around November,” said one TD.
“It is starting to undermine the image of a unified and coherent Government. There is a real feeling the Taoiseach should come out and talk to Joan. It is starting to look embarrassing to us at this stage.”
Yep. A run to the polls makes sense for Fine Gael, but for Labour (with the left grinding their carving knives), perhaps not so much.
Mick is founding editor of Slugger. He has written papers on the impacts of the Internet on politics and the wider media and is a regular guest and speaking events across Ireland, the UK and Europe. Twitter: @MickFealty
