Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil backing of Verona Murphy 'paves the way' for Government deal

Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael backing for the Wexford TD has paved the way for a coalition with the eight regional Independents

Independent TD Verona Murphy meeting members of the media on Wednesday after she was elected as Ceann Comhairle. She is the first woman to hold the office. Picture: Brian Lawless/PA

The election of Verona Murphy as Ceann Comhairle on Wednesday has paved the way for a coalition with the eight regional Independents.

The support of Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael for Ms Murphy’s candidacy is seen as a significant step towards a deal being reached to form a government.