FF backbenchers call off meeting after Taoiseach intervenes
A special meeting of Fianna Fáil back benchers on their current drive for more input into the party's election manifesto has been called off.
It follows the Taoiseach Bertie Ahern’s agreement in principle to their plan to set up a backbench committee.
It is understood that TDs in the party were due to receive a letter signed by 16 backbenchers inviting them to attend a meeting on Tuesday on the matter of setting up a committee.
But the Taoiseach met one of the main instigators, Kilkenny deputy John McGuinness, yesterday and it was agreed not to send the letter.
Instead, Bertie Ahern said he would attend next week's parliamentary party meeting and the issue would be discussed there.
It is being reported that certain senior TDs in the party are concerned that this proposed committee could be seen as representing a revolt but last night the Taoiseach said he would be more worried if the back benchers did not want any input into the manifesto.
A number of the TDs in question are understood to be frustrated at the government's handling of the fallout from last month's Supreme Court ruling on statutory rape and are anxious because polls have been pointing to a loss in Dail seats for the party.
