A Labour TD has strongly defended her decision to rule out Labour's support for an Aer Lingus sell-off, despite fears that her action could create political difficulties for the party.
Speaking on RTÉ's Questions and Answers on Monday, Róisín Shortall said the State airline would not be privatised if Labour returns to power, even though Fine Gael favours the sale.
Last night, Labour colleagues conceded that the language used by the Dublin TD could be used against the party over coming months, if it is pressured into taking policy stands on other controversial issues.
"As a general rule we have tried to avoid doing that, because people will come on to you to rule this out and that out. Very shortly, you will have a whole lot of things," said a party source.
However, senior figures believe the issue will not prove to be a blocking point in any negotiations with Fine Gael if the Government sticks to its sale timetable.
Ms Shortall remained emphatically opposed yesterday. "The party doesn't sanction language. Yes, I was being blunt. It was a strongly-held opinion, but one that reflects opinion in the party."
Fine Gael TD Olivia Mitchell, who has strongly criticised the Government for being too slow to sell Aer Lingus, downplayed the divisions illustrated by Ms Shortall.
"I was surprised by what she said, by the tone of it. But they have their position, and we have ours. And we are both entitled to our independent opinions," Ms Mitchell said.
"These issues will be discussed and resolved by the two party leaders after the election, but before a coalition government is formed between the two parties," she added.
Up to now, the Labour Party leader has been highly critical of Minister for Transport Martin Cullen's sell-off plans, particularly about his refusal to consider State investment.
