This measure was rejected by Jim Kemmy, a left-wing independent Teachta Dála, and Joe Sherlock of Sinn Féin The Workers' Party.

Their aim was to persuade Hillery to deny the dissolution, which would have forced FitzGerald to resign and allowed the Dáil to nominate a new Taoiseach, paving the way for Haughey’s potential return to office.

[3] The campaign was dominated by economic issues, with all parties downplaying the necessity of spending cuts despite the country’s severe fiscal challenges.

Fianna Fáil, under Charles Haughey, initially dismissed the need for austerity, presenting policies focused on increasing disposable income for families.

However, as the campaign progressed, the need for more realistic measures became evident, and Fianna Fáil pivoted towards policies resembling those already implemented by Fine Gael during its time in office.

Despite speculation about a potential leadership challenge by Desmond O'Malley, which ultimately failed to materialise, Haughey was confirmed as the party's nominee.