Harney: PDs have tough decisions to make

Mary Harney has said members of the Progressive Democrats have tough decisions to make on the party’s future when they meet next week.

The PDs founder and former leader has said the party faces a huge issue regarding its viability and sustainability if it does not have the capacity to elect people to the Dáil.

The Health Minister made her comments amid intense speculation that the PDs' only backbencher, Galway West TD Noel Grealish, is about to defect to Fianna Fáil.

Grealish is remaining with the Progressive Democrats for the time being following a meeting with his party leader last night, but that is not seen as a guarantee of his long-term commitment to the party.

When asked whether the PDs had a long term future, Mary Harney appeared pessimistic.

"I would love to think it had, but I have to be realistic in relation to others and we have all to apply our critical faculties to what the best route forward is for the Progressive Democrats," she said.