Micheál Martin refuses to rule out Fine Gael link-up

Senior Fine Gael figures have noted with interest an apparent softening by Fianna Fáil on whether it would support a minority government or form a so-called grand coalition with its long-standing rival after the election.

Officials for Fine Gael told the Irish Examiner they found the comments, made by Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin on Cork’s 96FM on Monday, about the prospects of such a move highly significant, and suggested a deal could be done if the numbers allow.

Speaking on the radio station at the start of the week, Mr Martin responded to questions over whether he would consider joining forces with Fine Gael after the election if a hung Dáil occurred by saying his party will act “responsibly” and in the national interest.