New Irish leader is likely to be stop-gap

Significance

In the weeks prior to the visit, Kenny declared that he would "effectively and conclusively" deal with the issue of his departure from office following his return to Dublin. A long-running scandal over a police whistle-blower has undermined Kenny's leadership of the Fine Gael party and opened fissures within the ruling coalition.

Impacts

• Several independent members of parliament, including Katherine Zappone, could lose their seats if a snap election is called.
• Dublin could seek guarantees from the UK government in Brexit talks allowing for future Irish reunification.
• Sinn Fein will likely increase their numbers in a forthcoming poll, but are unlikely to form part of the next administration.
• Renewed divisions over domestic water charges could prompt the downfall of the current government.