Fianna Fail and Fine Gael are neck-and-neck in political support for the first time since 2008.

According to a new opinion poll in today's Sunday Business Post the parties are tied on 26 per cent. Fine Gael’s popularity has dropped by two points, as Fine Gael’s implementation of austerity measures, coupled with high unemployment and emigration, further drains its support.
The poll was conducted last week, during the Alan Shatter controversy.

Fine Gale have lost an incredible 10 points since January, while Fianna Fail have climbed almost as far in the opposite direction, gaining 9 points from their 17 point count at the start of the year.

Sinn Fein remain on 16 per cent, while Labour continue to struggle in their role as minor member of the coalition, as they remain unchanged at 11 per cent.

Independents and the smaller parties have a combined support of 21 per cent.