Ireland names new prime minister following uproar in parliament

Micheál Martin has been elected as Ireland’s Taoiseach (prime minister) for the second time, following a tumultuous start to the new parliamentary session.

The 64-year-old leader of Fianna Fáil was formally elected on January 23, a day later than scheduled, after a contentious debate over parliamentary speaking rights delayed proceedings, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

The Irish parliament reconvened on January 22 for the first time since the November general election, following weeks of coalition negotiations. The session, intended to begin with a vote for Taoiseach, descended into chaos as opposition parties protested extended speaking rights granted to independent lawmakers supporting the incoming government.

Opposition leaders accused the government of undermining parliamentary fairness. “This ambiguity over speaking rights cannot stand. It’s a question of democratic principle,” declared a senior opposition member.

The government acknowledged the issue and worked overnight to reach a resolution. On January 23 morning, an agreement was struck to ensure that independents supporting the government would not retain extended speaking privileges, allowing the vote for Taoiseach to proceed.

Martin was elected before 2 p.m. in Dublin and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead once again. “It is a profound honour to be nominated to serve as head of the government in a free, democratic, and diverse republic,” he said in his acceptance speech.

He highlighted Ireland’s strong international ties, particularly with the United States and Europe. “Our kinship with the United States predates the formation of our state and remains steadfast. This relationship benefits us both and will endure strongly, no matter what,” Martin told the chamber.

The November election left no single party with a majority, prompting Fianna Fáil to renew its coalition with Fine Gael. Together, they secured additional support from regional independent lawmakers to form a government.

Although Martin returns as Taoiseach, the coalition agreement ensures a leadership rotation. Simon Harris, who replaced Leo Varadkar last year as Taoiseach and became Ireland’s youngest-ever leader, stepped down to assume the role of deputy prime minister. Harris is expected to return to the top role in 2027 under the agreement.

Martin previously served as Taoiseach in 2020 when Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael formed their historic coalition, uniting against a surge in support for Sinn Féin. Reflecting on his new term, Martin emphasized his commitment to unity and progress.

“Our challenges are great, but so too is our determination to deliver a fairer, more prosperous Ireland,” he said.

Ireland’s political landscape remains fragmented, yet the renewed coalition signals a continued effort by centrist forces to provide stable governance amid shifting public sentiment.

By Aghakazim Guliyev