Independent TD hints at new party for next election

Ireland could be faced with a third new party at the next general election after Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice announced he intended to field 25 candidates with similar views.

Mr Fitzmaurice, who defied the odds to deprive Fianna Fáil of a seat in October’s Roscommon South Leitrim byelection, said he was “sickened” by what has happened to the country in recent years and people needed an alternative to vote for.

His remarks follow indications from Fine Gael rebel Lucinda Creighton and maverick TD Shane Ross that they may finally launch a political grouping to stand at the next election, which must be held by the spring of 2016.