TDs 'furious' as Enda Kenny refuses to speak to Micheál Martin

Daniel McConnell, Elaine Loughlin and Fiachra O Cionnaith - Irish Examiner

Acting Taoiseach has sparked outrage among Independent TDs over his continued refusal to speak to Fianna Fail leader Micheál Martin.

A deeply frustrating day of talks this evening ended with Independent TDs “furious” at Mr Kenny’s refusal to speak to Fianna Fail leader Micheál Martin until their talks conclude.

In a bid to quell mounting pressure by members of the Independent Mr Kenny finally told them he would speak to Fianna Fail, but last night said that would only happen once he had an agreement from the Independents.

But Mr Kenny’s stalling in terms of contacting Mr Martin sparked outrage among the Independents.

“It is absolutely soul destroying the two boys haven’t sat down. Both are playing party politics, It is disgusting what is going on. Fianna Fail talking of forming a minority Government. They don’t have the numbers, it is a joke,” said one TD.

Mr Kenny had indicated would put forward proposals to Fianna Fáil by the weekend, but he clarified his position last night saying that will happen only after he has an agreement from the Independents.

Officially, a Fine Gael spokesperson last night said: “The Taoiseach has given no timing on when contact will be made and has consistently said the he wasn’t to be in a position to go to opposition parties, including Fianna Fáil, as a collective with an agreed programme of priorities to establish what support is forthcoming at that stage.”