The Taoiseach, Mr Ahern, sought to settle nerves within Fianna Fáil, at its ardfheis in Killarney, when he assured delegates the difficulties now being experienced were transitory and that support for the party would improve through their own hard work as the economy recovered. As on all such occasions, the party leader was listened to carefully and he received the customary standing ovations.
But concerns persisted over Fianna Fáil's historically low opinion poll showing. And candidates for next year's local authority elections worried they might become scapegoats for the Government's unpopularity.
In his televised address, Mr Ahern reached out to the general public and promised to keep taxes low and to fight inflation. He signalled Government action to reduce the cost of building land and warned of profiteering by the professions. The Government would not shirk from taking difficult decisions in reforming the health services, he said, and the ban on smoking in the workplace would go ahead. Admitting to difficult times for the Coalition Government, Mr Ahern insisted the special savings investment scheme would continue. He revived the election promise of a National Infrastructure Board to shorten planning delays and secure faster decisions for major projects. And he warned that time was running out for the Northern Ireland parties if early elections are to be held to the Assembly and the Executive re-established.
In the 18 months since his last ardfheis, the Taoiseach has fought and won a general election, secured the passage of the Nice referendum and worked hard to re-establish a power-sharing government in Northern Ireland. In spite of that record, his critics within the party have become increasingly vociferous and they accuse him of failing to provide direction and leadership or, alternatively, of adopting right-wing policies. That lack of discipline is also being reflected within the ranks of Fianna Fáil councillors as they seek to put distance between themselves and an unpopular Government to safeguard their seats. Opposition-from-within can sometimes be a useful tactic, but there comes a point when it corrodes the Government's authority and image.
Fianna Fáil delegates were heartened by more positive news on the economy and by indications that the December Budget by the Minister for Finance, Mr McCreevy, may not be as difficult as was anticipated. The publicans' campaign against a ban on smoking received short shrift. And the popularity of the Minister for Health and Children, Mr Martin, was enhanced as he promised reform and investment in the health services.
The ending of the dual mandate has been a blessing in disguise for Mr Ahern. Dissident Oireachtas members have no seats to lose on this occasion. And party organisers hope new faces on its posters will help to insulate it from the anger of the electorate over broken election promises. The Taoiseach is understandably focusing on the long term. But there is no guarantee that economic recovery will be marked by a Fianna Fáil resurgence.