Taoiseach to get legal advice but backs Damien English to keep TD role

TD resigned from junior ministry after it emerged he failed to disclose key information when applying for planning permission

Damien English failed to disclose ownership of a house in Castlemartin, Co Meath, when he and his wife applied for 'local needs' permission to build their current home. File picture: Collins

The Taoiseach will take legal advice on whether or not former junior minister Damien English breached any planning laws — but is backing the Meath West TD to stay in the Dáil.

Mr English resigned from his junior ministry at the Department of Enterprise late on Wednesday night after revelations that he had failed to disclose ownership of a house in Castlemartin, Co Meath, when he and his wife applied for a “local needs” planning permission to build their current home.