Fine Gael and Labour to limit election co-operation to vote transfer pact

Figures in both Fine Gael and Labour figures have indicated that co-operation between the parties in the lead-up to the general election will not extend beyond a vote transfer pact.

The parties have ruled out a joint policy platform, but there had been suggestions that a broader common statement of aims or economic parameters could be agreed closer to polling day.

“That isn’t going to happen,” said one Fine Gael source, who added that the voting pact would help present a Government seeking re-election.

Some in Labour have objected to the pact, which Tánaiste Joan Burton will outline to her TDs and senators at the parliamentary party think-in next week.

Dublin Central TD Joe Costello said Labour should not rule out working with any other parties in a future government, adding that the pact will tie Labour too closely to Fine Gael.

Mr Costello also said rank-and-file members – who will be canvassing during the election – should be consulted first.

Sources at grassroots level in the party said members were angered by the move, which they believe has been foisted upon them by Ministers.

Mr Costello said a voting pact was “fraught with danger”.

"Fine Gael has already distanced itself from a future coalition with Fianna Fáil and Sinn Féin," he said. "Sinn Féin and Fianna Fáil have made similar noises in relation to Fine Gael and to each other. Labour, therefore, is in an excellent position to pick up transfers from all of these parties, other smaller parties and independents."

Minister of State at the Department of Justice Aodhán O’Ríordáin said he didn’t think it was a “big ask” for Labour to request that its supporters continue their preference for Fine Gael, instead of Fianna Fáil or Sinn Féin.