Micheál Martin denies election fears behind reluctance to back no-confidence motion in Housing Minister

Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin has denied the real reason he will not back Sinn Féin's no-confidence motion in Housing Minister Eoghan Murphy is, that doing so, would cause a snap general election that could damage his own party.

Mr Martin rejected the claim as he twice avoided answering whether he believes Mr Murphy should step down voluntarily to ensure Fianna Fáil is not forced to scrap the confidence and supply deal.