In recent years, when there has been talk about Ireland’s first female Taoiseach, the focus has almost entirely been on Mary Lou McDonald. For the past three years, Holly Cairns has been steadily building her influence as leader of the Social Democrats. But she’s not the only one making a play on the left, with Ivana Bacik also trying to rebuild Labour’s position. As talk of a “united left” continues without any clear shape or cohesion, who, if anyone can emerge as a figure to bring those voters together? Today on the Indo Daily, Kevin Doyle is joined by Political Correspondent Cónal Thomas and Political Reporter Aisling Moloney, as they look at the battle for the leadership of Irelands somewhat united left.

Source: Irish Independent April 08, 2026 07:15 UTC