Emmet Maloney, a recent Wexford Fianna Fáil candidate and active local party member, has announced his resignation from the party amid growing frustration with the current political landscape in Ireland.
In an exclusive interview on Morning Mix, Mr. Maloney opened up about the reasons behind his decision and his views on the challenges facing Irish politics and society today.
Maloney had been in talks with Fianna Fáil headquarters about taking on the role of local area representative for the Wexford District — a position he believes is crucial for building the party’s profile ahead of the next general election. However, he ultimately decided to step back, citing deeper concerns about the political system.
“It’s not about personal or work issues, but more about the current political climate in Ireland,” Maloney explained. “I’ve become increasingly concerned about the disconnect between our political parties and the people they’re meant to represent.”
He expressed disappointment at how critical issues affecting everyday Irish families are being ignored or inadequately addressed by both politicians and the media.
“We live in a 24-hour news cycle, yet vital issues like the soaring cost of living and widespread protests are being largely overlooked,” he said. “Families are struggling with unaffordable rents, mortgages, and rising prices across the board. This is a huge burden on households.”
One of the major issues Maloney highlighted was immigration, a topic he says has become taboo and overly politicised. While he supports legal migration and aiding those fleeing conflict, he expressed concerns over the strain on public services caused by a rise in emergency accommodations and tent cities across the country.
“This situation is putting pressure on schools, GP services, and housing,” he said. “There needs to be a realistic, constructive conversation about immigration and how it’s impacting communities.”
The housing crisis was another topic Maloney spoke passionately about. Despite working in stable employment with his wife, he admitted that after 10 years of renting, buying a home remains an almost impossible dream due to skyrocketing prices and rents.
“People on housing lists face years of waiting, only to be told they have to move and lose their place in line. Single people especially have little hope of owning a home,” he said.
Maloney praised Wexford’s Minister for Housing, James Browne, calling him a capable politician who faces a tough job but stressed that the disconnect between government and people remains a major problem.
Addressing criticisms that some might dismiss as “sour grapes” following his unsuccessful election bid, Maloney denied any bitterness. Instead, he highlighted issues within Fianna Fáil at the local level, including a lack of ambition, perceived entitlement, and nepotism.
“I polled well despite joining the race late and faced a crowded field. Most of my votes came from personal networks rather than party supporters,” he explained. “There is a disconnect between party leadership and grassroots members, and young people are often not welcomed or engaged.”
Maloney sees a shifting political landscape fueled by greater youth engagement through social media and a move away from automatic party loyalty.
“Voters, especially young people, are no longer voting ‘just because’,” he said. “But keeping youth interested in politics is a challenge we must address.”
While Maloney hasn’t ruled out running for office again, he says his focus will remain on speaking out about local issues and advocating for meaningful change in Wexford.
“I don’t believe in simply attending events for publicity. I want to be straightforward and honest,” he said. “The political landscape is changing, and we need to adapt to it — especially to keep young people involved.”
When asked about the possibility of joining the Independent Alliance, Maloney expressed skepticism about their independence, noting that many affiliated candidates are effectively aligned with the party’s leadership.
“If you’re running as independent, then run independently,” he said. “There needs to be clarity and honesty in politics.”
