A pre-election pact between Fine Gael and the Labour Party formed the National Coalition, which presented a united front to the electorate for the first time in 16 years.

[3] This election was marked by a significant shift in the Irish political landscape, as Fine Gael and Labour, having spent years as separate opposition parties, decided to unite under the National Coalition banner.

Fianna Fáil, on the other hand, despite holding a strong position with 75 seats, faced criticism for its handling of various issues, including national security and economic performance.

The opposition parties were particularly effective in criticising Fianna Fáil’s handling of the economy and social issues, while Fine Gael and Labour worked together to highlight the government’s shortcomings and present a united, fresh alternative.

The Evening Echo, reporting on the day, noted that the election had been one of the hardest-fought in recent years, with both sides campaigning vigorously on issues like prices, social welfare, jobs, and national security.

[3] In the end, Fine Gael and Labour’s combined total of 73 seats gave them a slim majority, and the National Coalition emerged victorious after a bitter and hard-fought campaign.

The campaign had been marked by an effective opposition strategy that capitalised on Fianna Fáil’s vulnerabilities, and the pact between Fine Gael and Labour proved to be a decisive factor in the outcome.

[3] Fine Gael and the Labour Party formed the 14th government of Ireland, dubbed the National Coalition, with Liam Cosgrave as Taoiseach and Brendan Corish as Tánaiste.