It comes after some backbenchers have called for a discussion about a change of leadership in the wake of the presidential election.

Party candidate in that election, Jim Gavin, announced weeks before polling day that he was pulling out of the race after it emerged he owed a former tenant thousands of euro, which he has since repaid.

Fianna Fail’s handling of the candidate selection process and resulting campaign has put the leadership’s decision-making under scrutiny.

Mr Gavin was put forward to the party by Mr Martin and deputy leader Jack Chambers after expressions of interest from other hopefuls including MEP Billy Kelleher and former taoiseach Bertie Ahern.

Fianna Fail TDs John McGuinness and John Lahart said over the weekend that the party had to have a discussion about the judgm

See Full Page