X case free vote might put Micheál Martin into freefall

Though are just 19 of them in the Dáil now, all the Fianna Fáil TDs have a portfolio, so there is no ‘front’ bench or ‘back’ bench, just a bench — which is highly fitting, given Mr Martin’s wooden presentational style.

Not so much Dad’s Army, more Dud’s Army. In contrast, Enda Kenny has shown remarkably strong leadership on the X case issue.

Fianna Fáil leader’s customary indecision and his inability to assert himself have allowed the capable Michael McGrath to take charge on abortion and to show his fitness for the top job