Simon Coveney supports idea of coalition with Fianna Fáil

A second Fine Gael Cabinet minister has given support for a coalition with Fianna Fáil after the next general election.

Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney admitted Fine Gael had experienced a “terrible year” in 2014 but would have to look at its options if the numbers were not there with Labour after the next election.

In an interview with the Irish Examiner, Mr Coveney said his preference was for the present government to be re-elected. Both parties would have had the numbers a year ago, but other options needed to be considered, he admitted.