Motion seeks to ban Ahern, Cowen from running for Fianna Fáil

The grassroots in Fianna Fáil want former taoisigh Bertie Ahern and Brian Cowen, along with some former ministers, banned from ever again contesting elections under the party banner.

A controversial motion at this weekend’s ard fheis seeks to ensure former TDs who did not stand at the last general election should not be allowed stand for Fianna Fáil in future elections.

With 4,000 members in attendance, the party is planning to use the conference to drive momentum for next year’s local elections.