The end of Micheál Martin’s term as Taoiseach
The end of Micheál Martin’s term as Taoiseach would be the natural time for him to step down as Fianna Fáil leader, according to one of the party’s TDs.
Fianna Fáil’s poor showing in last week’s by-election has fanned unrest among some members of the party – with Sligo TD calling for Mr Martin to resign as leader “the sooner the better.”
Meanwhile former minister Barry Cowen called for a special meeting to address the ‘alarming’ showing in Dublin Bay South.
Fianna Fáil candidate Deirdre Conroy picked up just 4.6% of the first preference vote on Thursday, the party’s worst-ever result in a by-election.
On Newstalk Breakfast this morning Fianna Fáil TD for Kildare North James Lawless said the end of Mr Martin’s term as Taoiseach should also spell the end of his time as party leader.
“I think the whole party needs to look at itself – TDs, councillors, activists and support staff,” he said.
“We have to realise we haven’t connected with people in the by-election, we didn’t connect particularly well in the 2020 General Election and I think that, as a party who is in the business of winning seats and implementing policies, we need to look at how we offer ourselves, how we package ourself and what we stand for.
“So, I think there is a whole conversation to take place.
“In my mind the obvious time for that transition to take place – we hold the Taoiseach’s office until the end of next year – coming into that Christmas that would the natural time for that transition to take place.”
Credit to : Newstalk