Fianna Fáil failures - First look in the mirror

The impassioned speech by Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin at its ard fheis was intended to give the rudderless Soldiers of Destiny a new sense of direction.

But despite an enthusiastic standing ovation, whether they got the kiss of life is debatable.

His unequivocal apology for the failures of the FF-led government in spending, taxation and regulation, along with nods towards the banking crisis and global economic collapse, helped to rally the bruised and battered troops on the night. It was a start.

By reiterating support for a “Yes” vote in the coming referendum on the EU fiscal compact, he effectively nullified sacked deputy leader Éamon Ó Cuív’s ill-timed campaign of opposition to the treaty.

Behind the razzmatazz, however, delegates were keenly aware that the challenge facing Fianna Fáil is Sinn Féin’s success in filling the vacuum left by the party’s humiliating collapse in the last general election.

Mr Martin’s call for serious debate on where Ireland is going could not be more timely.

But the big challenge confronting Fianna Fáil will be to rediscover its moral and political compass.

Ultimately, if they hope to erase the toxic image, FF deputies and grassroots supporters face a hard choice — whether to remove tainted members of the old guard from key roles — including Mr Martin himself.