Fianna Fáil urged to appoint deputy leader

Senator Malcolm Byrne told the 'Irish Examiner' the focus was on finding 'someone to lead on the strategic development of the party and election planning' 

Senator Malcolm Byrne initiated the call for Fianna Fáil to press ahead with the appointment of a deputy leader. Picture: PA

The Fianna Fáil parliamentary party meeting has heard calls to appoint a deputy leader, while Tánaiste Micheál Martin was out of the country.

It is understood Wexford senator Malcolm Byrne initiated the call and said he was putting forward the proposal ahead of election planning.