FF chiefs meet ahead of PD coalition talks

The Taoiseach Bertie Ahern is holding round-table consulations with senior Fianna Fail ministers ahead of opening negotiations for Government with the Progressive Democrats.

The Taoiseach Bertie Ahern is holding round-table consultations with senior Fianna Fail ministers ahead of opening negotiations for Government with the Progressive Democrats.

A new programme for Government is expected to emerge within days.

Mr Ahern wants to finalise policy matters with his colleagues before formally opening negotiations for Government with the PDs.

What’s decided in policy terms by the ministers this morning will drive the agenda during talks with the PDs - due to begin this afternoon.

Party leader Mary Harney's negotiating team will consist of Attorney General Michael McDowell, party chairman John Minihan and newly-elected TD Tom Parlon.