Varadkar seeks to extend Dáil deal with FF

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar is using “backroom channels” to try to convince Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin to extend the confidence and supply deal beyond October.

He has also told his ministers that relationships with Fianna Fáil frontbench members need to be minded in the months ahead when a deal will have to be finalised.

A source close to Mr Varadkar said: “What the Government is trying to ensure is that confidence and supply is honoured and to keep, through backroom channels, Fianna Fáil up to speed as to what is going on and that extends to ministers. Ministers have tried to mind their opposite numbers. It is not a diktat from Leo but he would have emphasised the need to do that from time to time as good housekeeping.”