Northern Ireland

Fianna Fáil 'will not enter a coalition with Sinn Féin even when Gerry Adams is no longer leader'

"It is very clear whatever Gerry says, Mary Lou will say – it's a fact," FF lader Michael Martin said.
"It is very clear whatever Gerry says, Mary Lou will say – it's a fact," FF lader Michael Martin said. "It is very clear whatever Gerry says, Mary Lou will say – it's a fact," FF lader Michael Martin said.
By John Manley

Fianna Fáil leader Micheal Martin has said he will not enter a coalition with Sinn Féin even if Gerry Adams is no longer leader.

The Fianna Fáil leader told party members that Sinn Féin TDs, including deputy Mary Lou McDonald, parrot what Mr Adams says.

"It is very clear whatever Gerry says, Mary Lou will say – it's a fact," he said.

A fortnight ago, Mr Adams said he would announce plans for handing power to his party's "next generation" if re-elected leader at Sinn Féin's forthcoming ard fheis.

Despite a number of Fianna Fáil TDs raising the possibility of forming a coalition with Sinn Féin, Mr Martin said it would not be an option.

"The vast majority of the party support our position, which was adopted by the parliamentary party to oppose going into government with Sinn Féin," he said.