Ireland’s Parliament has elected Foreign Minister Micheal Martin as the new Taoiseach (Prime Minister) on Thursday.
Martin, leader of the Fianna Fáil party, takes on the role for a second term, succeeding Fine Gael’s Simon Harris.
The election followed a tense debate between government and opposition parties, leading to multiple suspensions of parliament on Wednesday.
The Dáil, Ireland’s parliament, approved Martin’s nomination for Taoiseach, which was then presented to President Michael Higgins for formal appointment.
Martin, who traveled to Áras an Uachtaráin to receive the Seal of the Taoiseach from President Higgins, shared a video of the moment on social media, expressing his deep honor at the appointment.
Afterward, Martin returned to the Government Buildings to begin forming his Cabinet. The Dáil is set to reconvene to vote on the full Cabinet lineup, according to Irish broadcaster RTE.
The final vote was 95 in favor and 76 against Martin’s appointment.
In his speech, Martin thanked his own party, Fine Gael, and regional independents who collaborated on a government program. He also expressed concerns about the increasing anger and divisiveness in global parliaments, stressing the importance of respectful discourse.
European leaders, including European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, congratulated Martin on his appointment.
Fianna Fáil emerged as the largest party in the November 2024 Irish general election, securing 48 seats. Sinn Féin, the main opposition party, won 39 seats, while Fine Gael took third place with 38 seats.
