Irish PM calls election for 26 February
Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny on Wednesday (3 February) called parliamentary elections for 26 February in a small poll that could see disillusioned voters turn away from established parties to back political mavericks.
«I am seeking a dissolution of Dail Eireann (parliament) today with the election to be held on February 26th,» Kenny tweeted before going to President Michael Higgins for formal authorisation.
The two rival centre-right parties that have taken turns leading Irish governments since 1932, Fianna Fail and Fine Gael, have seen their combined dominance among voters recede as support for independent politicians, new parties and anti-austerity groups has risen.
