Fine Gael: Party at the Crossroads

Defeated and demoralised, Fine Gael was a broken political party after the 2002 general election. Opponents mocked and critics sneered when the party turned to a relative unknown as its new leader.

Enda Kenny avoided talk of ideology and political beliefs – even his own deputy leader admitted he was wooden in television interviews. But Kenny has turned out to be a surprising leader.

Big names like Mairead McGuinness and George Lee have been recruited as the party has pursued populist campaigns on crime, misuse of public money and abolishing Seanad Éireann.

In Party at the Crossroads, Kevin Rafter tells the remarkable story of the Fine Gael comeback and provides an authoritative assessment of Irish politics after the economic boom.

Praise for Fine Gael: Party at the Crossroads

'It is in providing this overview of the changes within Fine Gael that the book excels. It opts for studious analysis rather than stunning revelation, but it's no less worthy for that.' Paul O'Brien, Irish Examiner

'A pacy and well-written account of the party's metamorphosis.' Shane Coleman, Sunday Tribune

'Rafter has a deep grasp of recent Irish politics, and compresses the information in a highly readable manner.' Eamon Delaney, The Irish Times

'This is a timely and clearly written book that gives a good insight into the characters that make up what is now the biggest party in teh country.' John Bruton, Irish Independent