ce and unity and independence of Ireland has always taken prominence on the political agenda, along with providing maximum employment, promoting a spirit of enterprise, maintaining Ireland’s neutrality and retaining membership in the European Union (Local Ireland). The party has produced five Prime Ministers being elected a total of 14 times. The Progressive Democrats were formed in 1985 when a group of politicians left Fianna Fail. Their leader, Mary Harney, was the first female to be elected as a political party leader in Ireland. “They view themselves as modern, liberal, and European in their outlook”, (Local Ireland). They strongly favor the European Union and economic integration within the EU. This coalition is on the center right of the political spectrum. The other governmental coalition consists of the Finn Gael (“Family of the Irish”), the Labour Party, and the Democratic Left Party. This coalition has not been in control since the 1994 elections. The Finn Gael advocates friendly relations, and ultimate union with Northern Ireland, financial encouragement of industry, promotion of foreign investment, and full development of agriculture. This party was in charge until their party leader and Prime Minister at the time, John Bruton was involved in a scandal involving relations that the wealthy part-owner of Ireland’s largest department store chain made a series of large payments to politicians and political parties between 1986 and 1996 that was not properly reported by the recipients for tax purposes (Political Handbook 447). Therefore the Prime Minister was forced to call for early elections that eventually gave power to the Fianna Fail. The Labour Party advocates far-reaching social security and medical services, better working conditions, protection of the home market, and the ultimate union of Northern Ireland. Reformers of the Workers Party launched the Democratic Left Party and they are ...
