Independents fear backing either of big parties

Independent TDs and groupings now fear backing either of the main parties would be politically toxic.

Members of the Independent Alliance have spoken of their fears of voting for either Enda Kenny or Micheál Martin on April 6.

Although a number of smaller parties, Independent TDs and groupings met with both Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael this week, they have not made any commitments and some now feel that backing the losing side would destroy their political careers.