SDLP may seek merger with Fianna Fáil

BERTIE AHERN’S plans to expand Fianna Fáil into Northern Ireland could come to fruition far sooner than expected, as some leading SDLP figures are reportedly seeking a merger with his party.

In the wake of the SDLP’s poor results in the Northern Ireland Assembly elections, the Taoiseach will be contacted by a group of senior party members this week seeking to evolve into Fianna Fáil, according to reports yesterday.

As the fallout from the Assembly elections rumbled on, Mr Ahern’s spokesperson confirmed last night that any approach would be considered if and when it was made.