The Taoiseach says "the tide of public opinion is against" Fianna Fáil. The party is taking a hammering across the country in the local elections. There are however some strong pockets of support for Fianna Fáil and the party has put in a solid performance in the Taoiseach's home county of Offaly. As counting continues, tallies show Fine Gael, Labour, Sinn Fein and Independents will take council seats from Fianna Fáil in many parts of the country. Brian Cowen said the Government must 'listen to the people' but continue to take tough decisions.