Fine Gael may back Verona Murphy as next Ceann Comhairle

Party is likely to support the Wexford TD to facilitate a government formation deal with regional independents

Verona Murphy could become Ireland's first female Ceann Comhairle. Picture: Gareth Chaney/ Collins

Wexford TD Verona Murphy looks set to get the backing of Fine Gael in her bid to become the first female Ceann Comhairle.

The Fine Gael party will meet on Tuesday evening to discuss the nomination for the Dáil's chair, with a senior party source saying there will be "very few rebels" against the idea of voting in a secret ballot for the former Fine Gael election candidate.