Fine Gael

Fine Gael

Fine Gael (meaning "Family of the Irish" or "Tribe of the Irish") is a centre-right to centre political party in Ireland. Founded in 1933, it is one of the two major parties in Ireland, along with Fianna Fáil. Fine Gael is a member of the European People's Party (EPP) and is considered to be a pro-European party.

History

Fine Gael was founded on 8 September 1933 following the merger of three political groups: Cumann na nGaedheal, the National Centre Party, and the Blueshirts (Army Comrades Association). The party was established as a response to the growing influence of Fianna Fáil, which had been founded by Éamon de Valera in 1926.

Early Years

In its early years, Fine Gael was led by W. T. Cosgrave, who had been the head of the Irish government from 1922 to 1932. The party positioned itself as a defender of the Anglo-Irish Treaty and the Irish Free State.

Mid-20th Century

During the mid-20th century, Fine Gael alternated in power with Fianna Fáil. Notable leaders during this period included John A. Costello, who served as Taoiseach from 1948 to 1951 and again from 1954 to 1957.

Recent Developments

In recent decades, Fine Gael has been led by figures such as Garret FitzGerald, John Bruton, and Enda Kenny. Under Kenny's leadership, Fine Gael formed a coalition government with the Labour Party in 2011, following the Irish financial crisis.

Ideology

Fine Gael is generally considered to be a centre-right party. It supports free market policies, fiscal conservatism, and European integration. The party has traditionally been associated with the Irish middle class and has strong support in rural areas.

Organisation

The party is organised at a national level with a central executive council. It also has local branches throughout Ireland. Fine Gael's youth wing is known as Young Fine Gael.

Electoral Performance

Fine Gael has been one of the dominant parties in Irish politics since its foundation. It has participated in several coalition governments and has provided several Taoisigh (Prime Ministers) of Ireland.

Notable Figures

• W. T. Cosgrave
• John A. Costello
• Garret FitzGerald
• John Bruton
• Enda Kenny
• Leo Varadkar

See Also

• Politics of the Republic of Ireland
• Fianna Fáil
• Labour Party (Ireland)

References

• Official Fine Gael website
• Fine Gael members in the Oireachtas