Key takeaways
- Fianna Fáil is the larger of the two parties in the 34th Dáil.
- Both have recent experience of government.
- Manifestos and votes are better evidence than broad labels.
Side-by-side themes
| Topic | Fianna Fáil | Fine Gael |
|---|---|---|
| 34th Dáil representationSeat totals can change through vacancies and by-elections. | 48 seats | 38 seats |
| HousingCompare published housing plans. | Party materials typically emphasise supply, home ownership and delivery. | Party materials typically emphasise supply, ownership and planning reform. |
| Public financesBudgets set the enacted policy. | Typically stresses investment alongside fiscal management. | Typically stresses enterprise, work and sustainable public finances. |
| EuropeSee each party's European material. | Supports Ireland's role in the EU. | Supports Ireland's role in the EU. |
Shared ground and differences
Both parties have led governments and operate across the centre-right of Irish politics. That description is only a starting point: their priorities, candidates and coalition choices can differ.
A comparison should distinguish a party statement from a Government decision or an individual TD's position.
How to compare them
Read the most recent manifesto, then check whether a proposal appears in the Programme for Government, budget papers or legislation. Oireachtas debates and votes provide a further record.
- Check policy documents dated for the current election or Dáil.
- Look at local candidates as well as national leadership.
- Use official budget and bill documents for enacted measures.
Representation in the 34th Dáil
The figures here are 48 Fianna Fáil TDs and 38 Fine Gael TDs. Membership is a live record; use the Oireachtas directory for the current composition.