Cabinet ministers back Micheál Martin’s leadership

By Bairbre Holmes, Press Association

Cabinet ministers have backed the Taoiseach after Fianna Fáil backbenchers criticised his leadership this week.

On Wednesday, three of the party’s youngest TDs issued a letter criticising the handling of recent fuel price protests in which they said they viewed “events of the past few weeks with a real and deep concern”.

Following the publication of the letter, other party members also voiced their disquiet at the Government’s handling of fuel protests and blockades.

In a statement, Minister for Social Protection Dara Calleary said he has “confidence” in Micheál Martin, adding “I have confidence in the Government and I have confidence in the Irish people”.

He said: “What we need now, in the face of extraordinary global uncertainty, is stability and a continued focus on the challenges facing people across the country.”

Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan issued a statement in which he said he “backs the Taoiseach and would not support a motion of no confidence in him”.

On Thursday, the party’s deputy leader Jack Chambers took to the airways to defend Martin.

Speaking to RTÉ radio the Public Expenditure Minister denied there was a “heave” against the party leader.

Chambers said senior party figures were not pushing to replace Martin out of an “absolute respect for him in his role and the huge integrity and dedication he brings to that office and his huge focus on public service”, adding: “I think we need to support him through that.”