Cannon dismisses speculation about merger with FF

The leader of the Progressive Democrats is dismissing speculation that his party is about to merge with Fianna Fáil.

In a statement, Senator Ciaran Cannon says no deal has been done to merge with Fianna Fáil or any other party and that there is no draft outline of any agreement.

This statement follows intense speculation that the PDs' only backbencher Noel Grealish is about to defect to Fianna Fáil, and an indication from former leader Mary Harney that the end could come soon for the party.

It is being reported that a wholesale merger with Fianna Fáil is almost complete, but Senator Cannon says this is not the case.

He admits the party is at "a significant crossroads and that it has some very challenging decisions to make".

He also concedes that PD members have been approached by other parties, but he insists that a merger is not being planned.

The PDs are due to meet next week to discuss the future of the party.

Senator Cannon says their decision will be based on what is best for party members facing into local elections next year.