Up to nine Fine Gael TDs expected not to run in next general election

Asked about his departure from politics, Brendan Griffin said: 'I would not be commenting at this stage on the future.' Picture: Julien Behal/PA Wire

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar is facing an electoral crisis with up to nine Fine Gael TDs now expected to stand down ahead of the next general election.

In a massive blow to the party, Kerry TD Brendan Griffin and Cork East representative David Stanton are now "certain" not to run.