Independent Dáil deputies are considering forming an alliance that would contest two forthcoming by-elections and hold the balance of power after the next general election. The proposal was presented in writing to the Independent TDs by their Mayo colleague Dr Jerry Cowley yesterday.
"It is within the power of the electorate to return sufficient Independent TDs to hold the balance of power and decide the formation of the next government" the document states. "If the present trend is sustained, then there will be a huge block of Independent TDs in the next Dáil."
Dr Cowley suggests setting up an "Independent Alliance" that would face its first challenge by nominating candidates to contest the forthcoming Meath and Kildare North by-elections. He adds that he has kept Dr Kieran Deeney, the Independent MLA in the Northern Assembly, briefed on his proposal and urges the group to consider including him in the alliance.
His proposal also leaves open a post-election deal with any group of parties "with a mandate from the people allowing it to be capable of forming a government."
Dr Cowley's document warns his colleagues to act swiftly to maximise their potential numbers in the next Dáil. "We must be ready to negotiate a programme for government when the opportunity presents itself. This could be at any time," he adds.
The proposal is likely to receive a positive response from some Independent TDs who enjoy little of the high profile and government access that those supporting the previous minority government achieved.
Noting that Independent TDs had the capacity in the past to exert influence on governments beyond their numbers, Dr Cowley refers to the deal made by the Dublin Central TD, Mr Tony Gregory, with the minority Fianna Fail government in 1982. He also refers to the influence enjoyed by Kerry South's Mr Jackie Healy-Rae and other Independents in the last government, as well as the manner in which the Progressive Democrats' have influenced government policy "above and beyond their Dáil numbers".
Health, social welfare, older people, community services, disability, education, environment, roads and infrastructure, tourism and justice were the areas identified by Dr Cowley where Independents could collectively impact on policy.
While not wanting to adopt an "holier than thou" attitude, Dr Cowley said there would be entry requirements for Independents joining the group so as to show the electorate that they aspired to the highest possible standards.
The proposal is expected to interest Independent TDs elected at the last general election, as well as the long-serving Mr Gregory and Tipperary South's Mr Séamus Healy, who was first elected in a by-election.
Dr Cowley noted that the Independent vote was up by one per cent in the last election, with Independents winning six seats, one more than in 1992. He added that in the June elections two Independent MEPs and 86 Independent councillors were elected.
