A three-way split in Ireland's general election is likely, professor in political science at Trinity College Dublin Gail McElroy tells AFP. Fine Gael and Fianna Fail, the two ruling coalition parties which have dominated Irish politics for a century, are squaring off against the Irish unity party Sinn Fein on November 29. "At the moment, it looks unlikely that Fianna Fail and Fine Gael can get the 88 between them, so they may need a third party." Professor McElroy says that the two parties would rule out a partnership with opposition Sinn Fein. Voting begins Friday morning and most results are expected on Saturday. IMAGES AND SOUNDBITES