The evolving nature of the Irish policy space

Abstract

This chapter uses the Irish element of the Comparative Candidate Survey (CCS) of Dáil candidates in the 2020 election to explore policy similarities and differences between Irish parties. Using previous CCS data, it also looks at how these have changed since the start of this century. The positions of parties, and the differences between them, are fairly stable with Fine Gael consistently the most right-wing and Sinn Féin the most left-wing. It also looks at how parties view one another: generally as less centrist than each party views itself. Exploring particular economic and social issues, including housing, crime, drugs and taxation, this chapter concludes that agreements are more apparent than disagreements.