Fianna Fáil ‘game playing’ on forming next government

Fianna Fáil’s stance on the formation of the next government has been criticised as game playing.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Charlie Flanagan said the party was acting as if it had succeeded in the general election despite Fine Gael still being the biggest presence in the Dáil.

Speaking in Washington on Wednesday, Mr Flanagan said his party is committed to the formation of a government.

"Fianna Fáil are currently engaged in game playing and their swashbuckling approach suggests that they have won the election, which clearly they have not," he said.

"The fact remains Fine Gael, with 50 seats, is the largest party and every effort will be made on behalf of Enda Kenny and Fine Gael to form a stable government."

Defending Kenny

Taoiseach Enda Kenny shortened his trip to the United States, flying home to resume negotiations.

Mr Kenny joked at an event on Tuesday night that he wished he did not have to return home to “face what he had to face”.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs defended Mr Kenny, insisting the comments had been misinterpreted.

“I was present when the Taoiseach made a lighthearted comment and I’m disappointed that his comment has been misinterpreted [and] misunderstood.”

Mr Flanagan warned against lengthy discussions and negotiations, claiming any delay would have consequences.

“I believe any prolonged period of uncertainty will give rise to instability and . . . it is important that all parties engage in a process and a government be elected.”

Mr Kenny has opened the door to negotiations with Fianna Fáil, insisting the party has a responsibility and duty to form a government.

Speaking at an event in Washington, Mr Flanagan also raised concerns about the implications of a British departure from the European Union.

He said this is a significant risk for the Irish economy and the Government was eager to avoid a Brexit.