Group of rural TDs has talks with Fianna Fail and Fine Gael

A new rural group of independent TDs has had initial talks with both Fianna Fail and Fine Gael on Government formation.

The Regional Group, comprises of nine TDs, and is convened by Roscommon/Galway independent TD Denis Naughten.

It confirmed that it held exploratory talks with both Fianna Fail and Fine Gael on Turesday.

In a statement, the group said: “While the group operates as a technical group in Dáil Eireann, the members felt it was imperative they express the views of their constituents that there is now an urgent need to form a stable and effective Government to address the issues facing the country.”

The group had a useful exchange of views and await developments by all the political parties, the statement concluded.

The Regional Group consists of: Cathal Berry, Sean Canney, Peter Fitzpatrick, Noel Grealish, Michael Lowry, Verona Murphy, Denis Naughten (convener), Matt Shanahan and Peadar Toibin.