What Is Fine Gael?

Fine Gael is a moderate political party in Ireland. Since its founding in 1933, Fine Gael has called for the use of all peaceful means to unite Ireland and Northern Ireland and has also followed a policy of dialogue and compromise in dealing with the English.

In 1933, the party was known as "Cumann na nGaedheal," or "Gael Society" and it came into being thanks to the merger of two small political formations.

Cumann na nGaedheal first formed government in 1923, after winning 41% of the vote and was led by William Cosgrave. It remained in power until an electoral defeat in 1932. The new Fine Gael party first formed government in 1948, as part of a coalition of parties under the leadership of John Costello.  This government was responsible for proclaiming the Republic of Ireland. Fine Gael also governed between 1973 and 1977, as well as from 1981 to 1987.