Support for Sinn Féin in the Republic has fallen, according to a new opinion poll.
The latest survey reveals a four point drop for the party in the first poll since the recent local and European elections.
The Sunday Independent/Ireland Thinks poll suggests that the party is now on 18%, behind Fine Gael, Fianna Fáil and Independents, compared to the last poll carried out in June.
It comes just weeks after Sinn Féin initiated a review after performing below its own expectations in the recent elections in the Republic.
Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald said at the time that she was “sorry” her candidates did not perform better in the Republic’s local elections, amid criticism of the party’s strategy in the council races.
Commentators noted that Sinn Féin’s strategy in some constituencies had led to its vote being split too much.
Ms McDonald said: “Clearly, we didn’t get that right”.
The latest opinion poll, which was carried out on Thursday and Friday, also reveals that support for Fine Gael has risen by two points to 24%, while Fianna Fáil on 20% - up three points.
Independents and others are also on 20%, but there is a three point drop in support for this group.
The Social Democrats, the Green Party and Aontú are all on 4% support.
Labour remained unchanged at 3%, while People Before Profit-Solidarity is up one percentage point to also stand on 3%.
