Fianna Fail, Irish Republicanism and the Northern Ireland Troubles, 1968-2005

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Fianna Fáil, the Republican Party, has been defined by its focus on partition and commitment to reunification, making it the most vocal political party in the Republic of Ireland regarding Northern Ireland. Its emotional response to the Troubles, particularly during the Arms Crisis of 1970, threatened both the party and the stability of the state. Nevertheless, Fianna Fáil has also played a crucial role in the Northern Ireland peace process and efforts at reconciliation between Unionists and Nationalists. Despite this, there has been a lack of substantive analysis of the party's language, ideology, and policy on Northern Ireland since the Troubles began. This important new work examines Fianna Fáil's record on Northern Ireland since 1968, detailing its responses to the Troubles and guiding principles in seeking solutions. Catherine O'Donnell emphasizes the significance of the relationship between Fianna Fáil and Sinn Féin in understanding the party's role in the peace process, which began with their talks in 1988. The book explores the implications of the peace process and the Good Friday Agreement on Fianna Fáil's ideology and policy, underscoring the ongoing importance of this relationship in both the peace process and politics in the Republic of Ireland. As Sinn Féin gains electoral ground, this work is essential for understanding the contested nature of Republicanism in southern politics.