Micheál Martin has received his seal of office from President Michael D. Higgins, marking his return as Taoiseach following a vote in the Dáil earlier today.
The Fianna Fáil leader was elected with 96 votes in favor and 76 against, after extensive discussions with parties this morning resolved outstanding issues that had led to multiple suspensions of the Dáil yesterday.
Fianna Fáil, the largest party in the Dáil, recently finalized a coalition deal with its historic rival, Fine Gael, and a group of regional independents. This marks Martin's second term as Taoiseach, having previously held the position from 2020 to 2022 during a coalition with Fine Gael and the Green Party.
After receiving his seal of office at Áras an Uachtaráin, Martin returned to Government Buildings, where he will unveil his cabinet to the Dáil.
However, criticism from opposition TDs has intensified over the decision to put the Dáil into recess for another two weeks, allowing new Ministers to settle into their roles.
