16/09/2008

Future Of Progressive Democrats Unsure

The Progressive Democrat party faces an unsure future as discussions on Tuesday will decide if the party will continue to exist.

The party's four parliamentary members will meet with PD councillors to discuss the party's future or demise, with most observers believe absorption into Fianna Fail being the most likely outcome.

The discussions are being undertaken following speculation one the party's TDs is planning to defect to the Government party, and an announcement is due on the likely move by Tuesday afternoon.

Galway West TD for the Progressive Democrats, Noel Grealish, has refused to deny the move to Fianna Fail, but has continued to keep play his 'hand close to his chest', and poker face steady.

The party, which is presently working in a coalition with the Fianna Fail government has only two TDs in the Daíl, with two Senators in the second chamber, but such a move could spell the end for the party as an independent entity.

It is believed Tuesday's meeting will see hard line party members battle to save the party, but it is widely accepted the future looks bleak for the survival of the party.

(DW)


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