Rabbitte: Polls not the focus of Labour meeting
Political parties are preparing for their annual 'think-ins' ahead of the new Dáil term which starts next week.
First up this year is the Labour Party, whose TDs, Senators and MEPs gather in Carlow today and tomorrow to discuss topics like the economy and jobs.
A poll in yesterday's Sunday Times showed a drop in support for Labour, putting the party at 12%, while their coalition partners Fine Gael surged to 44%.
Labour Party Minister Pat Rabbitte has said he was quite surprised by the result, but insists the focus of their meeting is "not the polls and not popularity".
Mr Rabbitte said: "It is the huge challenge that faces the Government. There has been no opportunity since this Government came into office for the party to meet in a session like this.
"It was straight into the business of Government, we have had no opportunity to meet with colleagues some of who are elected to Dáil Eireann for the first time."
