McDaid reverses decision to retire at next election

Fianna Fáil TD Jim McDaid has reversed his decision to retire from politics in response to Niall Blaney's decision to rejoin the party.

Yesterday, Mr Blaney confirmed that he would merging his independent political group with Fianna Fáil, ending a 34-year split between the party and the Blaney family.

Mr McDaid confirmed afterwards that he would be putting his name forward as a candidate in response to the move, which he said had been handled in a "scurrilous" manner by Fianna Fáil.

The Donegal North East TD had originally planned to retire at the next election.

He said yesterday that many Fianna Fáil supporters in the constituency were unhappy and angry with the actions of the party leadership.