Micheál Martin caught on horns of dilemma

A deal between Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael won’t be easy, but is still necessary, says political editor Daniel McConnell

SO it finally happened. It only took 34 days; significant pressure from independent TDs; and one Irish Examiner front-page story to bring temporary Taoiseach Enda Kenny and his new love interest Micheál Martin together.

On Thursday, Martin made a call to Enda, who promptly called him back with the all- important suggestion that they might hook up for a chat. But like two teenage boys afraid of looking foolish in front of their mates, a rather pathetic spat occurred over who made the first move.