This summer recess poll for Paddy Power, taken in the past week with fieldwork from Mon-Weds this week, sees a relatively stable political landscape when compared to a similar poll conducted by RED C for The Sunday Business Post in June. The recent passing of the abortion legislation to law does not appear to have had any impact on support for Fine Gael, who remain the most preferred political party with 29% support, a rise of 1% since June..

Despite some stories about a possible heave in Fianna Fail against Michael Martin, the party retains the same level of support as seen in July at 22%, although this remains depressed vs. what the party had achieved during the first few months of the year. Labour support appears to have levelled off somewhat again after a few months of decline. Support is down by just 1% leaving the party support overall at 11% for the summer.

Sinn Fein also drop back slightly by 2% after a relatively strong showing in June, leaving the party support down at 15% overall.

With little change occurring within the main political parties, as often seen in summer period, Independents continue to see a growth in support now at 23%. This now sees Independents ahead of Fianna Fáil, not seen since June 2012 (when support for Ind. was at 19% and Fianna Fáil at 18%). Strengths for Independents lie with males, those residing in Dublin and also with strong support coming from those aged 35-54 – key demographics where Fianna Fáil see a very low support.

Download the full report below:
Paddy Power – 8th August – Political Poll 2013