Post-Crisis Irish Voter: Voting Behaviour in the Irish 2016 General Election

Provides the definitive study of voting behaviour in the 2016 Irish election

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 22 August 2018
Publisher: Manchester University Press

The 2016 Irish general election marked a pivotal moment in Irish political history, resulting in the worst electoral outcome for Ireland's established parties, the most fragmented party system in the country's history, and the emergence of new political parties and movements. This election follows a pattern observed in several Western European established democracies, where the severe impact of the Great Recession has disrupted party systems. This comprehensive book aims to evaluate this extraordinary election in its Irish and broader cross-national context. Drawing on the expertise of leading scholars in Irish elections, the book utilizes a unique dataset, the Irish National Election Study 2016, to examine voting patterns at Ireland's first post-crisis election. It also explores the implications of these outcomes for the electoral landscape and politics in Ireland, offering valuable insights into the evolving political dynamics of the country.

The 2016 Irish general election was a historic event that had far-reaching consequences for Irish politics and society. It marked the worst electoral outcome for Ireland's established parties in decades, with the Fine Gael-Labour coalition losing a significant number of seats to Sinn Féin and other smaller parties. This election also resulted in the most fragmented party system in Ireland's history, with no single party gaining a clear majority and a number of parties forming coalition governments.

One of the key factors that contributed to the election's outcome was the impact of the Great Recession on Ireland. The country had suffered severe economic downturn, with high unemployment rates and a significant decline in household income. Many voters felt that the established parties had failed to address these issues effectively and were looking for a change. Sinn Féin, in particular, gained support from those who felt that the government had not done enough to support those who were struggling and had instead focused on austerity measures and cuts to public services.

Another factor that played a role in the election was the rise of populist and nationalist movements in Europe. Many voters in Ireland were attracted to these movements, which promised to protect Irish interests and promote a more nationalist agenda. Sinn Féin, in particular, benefited from this trend, as it positioned itself as a party that was committed to protecting Irish sovereignty and promoting a united Ireland.

The election also saw the emergence of new political parties and movements, such as the Green Party and the Social Democrats. These parties were able to gain significant support by appealing to voters who were concerned about environmental issues and social inequality. They also offered a more progressive alternative to the established parties, which were seen as too conservative and too focused on economic interests.

The election's outcome has had significant implications for Irish politics and society. It has led to a renewed focus on issues such as economic inequality, social welfare, and environmental sustainability. It has also raised questions about the future of the Irish political system, with some analysts suggesting that the country may be moving towards a more proportional representation system or even a system of direct democracy.

In conclusion, the 2016 Irish general election was a historic event that marked a significant shift in Irish politics and society. It resulted in the worst electoral outcome for Ireland's established parties, the most fragmented party system in the country's history, and the emergence of new political parties and movements. The election's outcome was influenced by a range of factors, including the impact of the Great Recession, the rise of populist and nationalist movements, and the appeal of new political parties and movements. The election's outcome has had significant implications for Irish politics and society, and it will likely continue to shape the country's political landscape in the years to come.

Weight: 572g
Dimension: 238 x 189 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526122643