Comment

Lucinda Creighton: Exodus of backbench FG deputies speaks of malaise at heart of party

Despite a thriving economy, Fine Gael TDs are bowing out in alarming numbers – which speaks to an ailing party deeply in need of new blood and new ideas

Fine Gael leader and Tanaiste Leo Varadkar: This government is awash with cash. Picture: PA

In late 2010 and early 2011, 23 Fianna Fáil TDs announced their intention not to contest the looming election. The circumstances made this understandable as the party had led the country to the brink of bankruptcy and the electorate was in a fury.

Many TDs opted to jump before they were unceremoniously dumped by the electorate.

The context for Fine Gael TDs announcing in recent months that they are standing aside is very different. Ireland ...