Fine Gael backbencher John Deasy has claimed at least 10 to 15 Government TDs privately want Taoiseach Enda Kenny to step down, warning the issue will “come to a head before the end of the year”.

The articulate Waterford Fine Gael TD has long clashed with his boss, and Nama’s Northern Ireland loan portfolio is just the latest flashpoint, writes Daniel McConnell.

Fianna Fáil TDs will meet next Monday to decide on a single nominee - with four members expressing an interest.

The Department of Social Protection has been urged to stop dragging its heels over the Waterford Crystal workers pension row, after it emerged 30 of the firm’s ex-employees have died without any resolution.

The Dáil’s powerful Public Accounts Committee is split on whether to release evidence given to it by Garda whistleblower Maurice McCabe behind closed doors.