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.