Mícheál Lehane

Political Correspondent

A composite photo of Heather Humphreys on the left and Catherine Connolly on the right

Áras candidates' judgement scrutinised in interviews

Catherine Connolly says she makes considered decisions and Heather Humphreys insisted that she could be trusted to hold the line against outside forces seeking to influence the President in seperate RTÉ interviews.

Presidential Election • 14 Oct 25

Minister for Public Expenditure Jack Chambers

Chambers 'regrets' manner of Gavin's election withdrawal

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform Jack Chambers has said he deeply regrets the manner of Jim Gavin's withdrawal from the presidential election campaign.

Politics • 09 Oct 25

Emotional Martin eats humble pie as party takes stock

Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin listened to criticism of how the Gavin nomination was handled, but his approach was one of apology and emotion compared to the swagger he displayed on Monday evening, writes Micheal Lehane

Analysis and Comment • 09 Oct 25

Martin apologises to FF colleagues for election debacle

Taoiseach and Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin has apologised to his party colleagues for the Presidential Election debacle at a parliamentary party meeting, saying he was devastated at what had happened.

Presidential Election • 09 Oct 25

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 25

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 25

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 25

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 25

€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 25

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 25