Alcohol bill increases coalition tensions

Relations between government partners Independent Alliance and Fine Gael are deteriorating further after a second public row in 24 hours, this time over the sale of alcohol in shops.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Transport Minister Shane Ross clashed this week over whether judges should be required to declare interests as “they might forget their oath”.

Mr Kenny publicly rebuked the Alliance minister, saying he did not accept the claim as he disassociated himself from Mr Ross’ opinion.