Brian Dowling of RTÉ's Political Staff examines some of the key issues ahead of the forthcoming election.
Off Trend
With poor showings in recent polls, Fine Gael has a huge battle in the days ahead.
Down to 26%, the party needs to take its campaign by the scruff of the neck if it wants to get back anywhere near 30% and reverse the apparent downward trend in its support.
Bored Stupid
By common consensus last year's UK general election was one of the most boring ever. The campaign never really caught fire.
Now as we enter into the second half of our own General Election, it certainly looks to be well in contention for the prize of "the most boring ever".
Labour of Love?
Statistically it is almost meaningless. A single percentage point increase or decrease in polling support is well, well inside the bounds of the typical plus/minus 3% margin of error..
But there are times when a little number takes on a much bigger meaning.
Universally Unpopular
Scrapping the Universal Social Charge over the course of five years will be one of the cornerstones of the Fine Gael election campaign.
USC currently brings in over €4bn a year in revenue for the Exchequer. It is a big source of income for the Exchequer.
But it is unlikely the scrapping of USC would amount to a bumper giveaway.
Shaping Up
The next government will be a coalition - perhaps a surprising one - and we can be certain compromises will be made in putting it together.
RTÉ's Brian Dowling outlines what might happen When the real politics starts.
Long Road
The Road to the Election series looks at key issues, policies and personalities ahead of the General Election.
