Mícheál Lehane

Political Correspondent

Martin to take 'full responsibility' for FF campaign

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has said that he will take "full responsibility" over what happened to Fianna Fáil's presidential campaign when his parliamentary party meets.

Presidential Election • 08 Oct

Budget 2026: €10 rise in pension, welfare rates expected

A €10 increase in the State pension and Social Protection rates is expected in today's Budget. The Budget will also see mortgage interest relief, which has benefitted more than 60,000 householders, extended for another year before being gradually phased out in 2027.

Budget 2026 • 07 Oct

Micheál Martin stands alongside Jim Gavin who is waving

Fianna Fáil in crisis as Gavin exits presidential race

Jim Gavin's departure from this election left many in Fianna Fáil stunned last night but tellingly the party leader said it was the correct decision.

Analysis and Comment • 06 Oct

Shot of Heather Humphreys, Catherine Connolly, Jim Gavin in the RTÉ studio

5 key takeaways from the latest presidential debate

After the second debate of the Presidential Election campaign, Michéal Lehane takes a look at the key talking points.

Analysis and Comment • 05 Oct

€2.5bn cost of living package in SF alternative budget

Sinn Féin has launched its alternative budget, entitled 'End The Rip-Off', which includes a €2.5 billion cost of living package.

Budget 2026 • 02 Oct

Minister for Justice Jim O'Callaghan was questioned in the Dáil about the C&AG report (File image)

Govt accused of incompetence over IPAS overpayments

Minister for Justice Jim O'Callaghan said he has renegotiated more than 100 contracts and terminated 12 contracts for International Protection Accommodation Centres.

Politics • 01 Oct

Gavin campaign deletes photo with Defence Forces chief

A photo of the Fianna Fáil presidential candidate Jim Gavin and the Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces Rossa Mulcahy was deleted this evening from Mr Gavin's social media campaign platforms.

Presidential Election • 02 Oct