Fine Gael’s empty branding hides absence of real politics

Saturday, May 6, was probably the most important day for Fine Gael since the last election. Party leader Enda Kenny, with a general election a mere year away, had a unique moment. His leader’s address from the party’s ard fheis was to be broadcast live at prime time on national television. It presented a chance to sell himself and a party that was relaunched after its defeat in the last election.

After 2002, ...