Tánaiste acknowledged Fine Gael briefings on Taoiseach were ‘out of order’, Micheál Martin says

Mr Martin said that there was no issue with coalition cohesion and that the Tánaiste had phoned him

A number of newspapers last week had carried stories containing quotes from Fine Gael sources who said that the Taoiseach was responsible for “mixed messages” on the Mercosur trade agreement. Opposition led by France, Ireland, and Poland failed to prevent the deal from being passed last week, though Mr Martin had opened the door for Ireland to vote in favour while in China. Picture: Brian Lawless/PA

Tánaiste Simon Harris called Taoiseach Micheál Martin to say briefings against him in newspapers by Fine Gaeol sources were “out of order”.

A number of newspapers last week had carried stories containing quotes from Fine Gael sources who said that the Taoiseach was responsible for “mixed messages” on the Mercosur trade agreement. Opposition led by France, Ireland, and Poland failed to prevent the deal from being passed last week, though Mr Martin had opened the door for Ireland to vote in favour while in China.