FF begin to court independents

Fianna Fail has made informal approaches to some newly elected independent TDs.

Dr Jerry Cowley from Mayo has confirmed that talks have taken place with himself and the independent deputy from Sligo-Leitrim, Marian Harkin. A key demand of theirs is decentralisation to the west.

Dr Cowley has said he will only support Bertie Ahern if the interests of the people of Mayo are served.

"The change that people in Mayo are expecting is some different treatment from the past 80 years when we didn’t get what we deserved, we got the crumbs. We are looking for a slice of the cake and that is what people in Mayo want.

"If that means that I can get this through supporting a Fianna Fail administration, if Fianna Fail are prepared to deliver what is needed for Mayo, then I am happy to support them, " he said.