Éamon Ó Cuív: Fianna Fáil needs at least 12 more TDs to lead minority government

A senior Fianna Fáil figure believes his party needs at least 12 Independents to vote with them in order to lead a minority government and oust Fine Gael from power.

Éamon Ó Cuív made the remarks as he said one of the two parties will have to admit defeat in the next taoiseach vote, but that Thursday’s ballot could be adjourned to next Tuesday to allow space for detailed talks.

Speaking to the Irish Examiner as negotiations began between Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil, Mr Ó Cuív said while he is not privy to discussions he believes his party needs the backing of 12 Independents “at a minimum”.