Martin scrambles to reassert his authority on FF

MICHEÁL MARTIN scrambled to reassert his authority on Fianna Fáil last night after the party’s shaky presidential stance provoked uproar.

In a bid to ease tensions in Fianna Fáil and head off what he called a “leadership issue” for Mr Martin, rebel senator Labhrás Ó Murchú withdrew his candidacy for the Áras.

Mr Ó Murchú’s bid to stand as an independent with Fianna Fáil backing led to stormy exchanges at the previous party meeting at which deputy leader Eamon Ó Cuív was reported to have threatened to resign.