As the Fianna Fáil parliamentary party gathers for a Sligo meeting, Michael O'Regan and Christine Newman sample the mood among backbenchers
Despite recent setbacks the Taoiseach, Mr Ahern, still enjoys considerable support among his backbenchers. A survey by The Irish Times of 25 of the 50 has revealed, however, that most expect him to show more decisive leadership of his ministers.
They also believe that he should undertake a significant Cabinet reshuffle next year in the aftermath of the European and local elections. However, some believe that there should be a reshuffle earlier.
On the issue of the smoking ban, which comes into effect on January 1st, the majority are in favour in principle but believe it should be introduced on a phased basis.
Some remain resolutely opposed to its introduction, arguing that it will severely damage the hospitality industry.
There was confusion regarding the controversy over the resignation of Ms Justice Laffoy from the commission investigating child abuse in religious institutions. Some criticised the way it was handled by the Minister for Education, Mr Dempsey.
A number of deputies also felt that Ms Justice Laffoy's letter should have been published immediately after her resignation.
While most TDs recognised the reality of an economic downturn, there was an underlying unease about the Government's failure to communicate it properly to the electorate.
The survey showed that the Taoiseach's leadership is secure, although some considered that he needed to assert his authority more.
One said: "The Sligo meeting will tell a lot. The Taoiseach has to make it clear to all members of the parliamentary party that they have to speak on all issues with one voice. There is no point in some people doing a solo run on an issue while a deputy, perhaps in the same constituency, is left defending Government policy. I have lost some respect for him, but he can retrieve the situation."
Another backbencher expressed concern about Mr Ahern's leadership, saying: "I've never been that close to the Taoiseach. I have certain question marks and I have serious questions but I don't want to say any more."
However, a backbencher with reservations about the performance of some ministers was strongly supportive of Mr Ahern. "He is the best there is," he said.
Another added: "I'm a strong supporter of Bertie's."
A backbencher pointed out that Mr Ahern had led the party into government in two elections. "He's still an asset. You cannot say he has lost it because of what has happened in recent months. I'm sick of the coverage of his daughter's wedding and I feel sorry for him."
Another TD was pessimistic about the Government's future, arguing that the battle for public opinion was lost:
"I think Fianna Fáil will be hammered in the local and European elections and I'm not sure if a reshuffle will restore our popularity. I think it is over for us - but then, there is no opposition worth talking about."
Inevitably, a major Cabinet reshuffle was in the minds of all backbenchers.
One said: "He needs a complete clean-out, with new, young, fresh faces replacing people who have been in office too long."
The Minister for Health, Mr Martin, may have some difficulty in meeting his January deadline for the smoking ban if he takes on board the views of a significant number of backbenchers.
One said: "I think January 1st is going to cause major headaches. I think it should be phased in. Old habits die hard. I think it will cause a lot of problems for the Minister and Cabinet. It will bring problems for publicans. I think overall it is probably a good thing, but bringing down the guillotine on January 1st will cause problems."
Another remarked: "The Minister's proposal will do untold damage to the hospitality and tourism industries. There should be a no-smoking section in pubs and restaurants."
However, a number of deputies strongly supported the Minister. "It is a health issue and must be met head-on," said one.
Confusion over the Laffoy controversy was summed up by one backbencher who said: "I don't know a lot about the situation. I think there's probably more to it than meets the eye.
"Until we hear perhaps at a parliamentary meeting about more evidence, I think it would be unfair for me to say anything."
However, another was very critical of Mr Dempsey.
"The Minister handled it disastrously," he said.
Another added: "I think he was caught with his mouth open. He should have been more circumspect."
A number of deputies referred to the "public relations disaster" in the Government's handling of the economy.
One said: "We have to get the message across that times are going to be more difficult. We should have done it a year ago."
Another said that the Government's "prudent handling" of the economy was not being communicated to the public.
A TD said: "A communications gap has developed between the Cabinet and backbenchers and the public. We have become too complacent."
Another said in relation to the economy: "I think the Government has a perception of staleness about it. I don't think it is handling it well."