Dublin: Ireland’s parliament re-elected Enda Kenny as Prime Minister on Friday at the head of a minority government, ending a long blockage following inconclusive elections in February.
Kenny won the vote by 59 in favour and 49 against, in the fourth attempt to elect a prime minister, thanks to the support of independent lawmakers and the consent of the main opposition Fianna Fail party.
"This government has much to do. Our country faces many challenges -- that was the message that the people gave during the election and has been repeated by so many of you," Kenny said in his acceptance speech.
"The new government has listened to that message and we will act on that message."
Kenny's Fine Gael party last week secured a deal that arch-rivals Fianna Fail would abstain on the vote, allowing him to form a minority government.
The agreement between the parties means that Fianna Fail will back Fine Gael and independents on key confidence votes in return for having a number of its policies implemented from the opposition benches.
Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin said the arrangement would remain in place at least until the end of 2018.
The draft plan for government includes a commitment to additional public spending over the next five years and the suspension of controversial water charges in a concession to Fianna Fail.
Fine Gael, which won 50 seats at the election as against 44 for Fianna Fail in the 158-seat Dail, or lower house of parliament.
