Politics

Eoin O’Malley: Micheál Martin paints Fianna Fáil into an election corner by brushing off Sinn Féin

Éamon de Valera acquired a reputation as a political genius in part on his election timing. Less than a year after taking power with the support of the Labour Party in 1932, he surprised everyone by calling an election in January 1933. Fianna Fáil gained seats, becoming the first party in the State to win an overall majority.

Micheál Martin has ruled out coalition with Sinn Féin. Photo: PA Éamon de Valera acquired a reputation as a political genius in part on his election timing. Less than a year after taking power with the support of the Labour Party in 1932, he surprised everyone by calling an election in January 1933.

Fianna Fáil gained seats, becoming the first party in the State to win an overall majority. Apart from being frustrated at his dependence on Labour support, Dev picked the date because the opposition was in disarray. Join the Irish Independent WhatsApp channel Stay up to date with all the latest news.