New Labour leader keeps his powder dry - for now

The Tipperary TD, affectionately known to friends, foes and sometimes himself as 'AK47' on account of his no-nonsense style, has a reputation as a rough and ready politician who is as able to take a punch as throw one in any parliamentary fist fight.

And, as any sparring partner at the Dáil's public accounts committee, health committee or the floor of Leinster House knows all too well, he is not one to keep people guessing as to what is on his mind.Which makes it all the more interesting why, for now, some believe coy is exactly what he is being.

"When it comes to forming a government we have been very clear since the general election that it is up to other parties to take their responsibilities seriously and it is up to them to form a stable government. And it is a coyness that could become crucial in the coming weeks rather than days, as the now 55 days and counting search for a workable post-general election government begins to slowly reach another make or break stage.

The Social Democrats could be a useful bridge to within touching distance of the 80 seat requirement, but remain resolute in their insistence they will not join a coalition that includes both Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil. As such, it will not have been lost on him that with Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil's options running out, it is not in Labour's interest to rush to the rescue straight away.

This was confirmed to RTÉ News by a number of those who took part in the phone call who said there was an "overwhelming" view the party should remain in opposition. No stranger himself to forging deals in times of political quagmire, given his role in the 1994-1997 Fine Gael-Labour-Democratic Left "rainbow coalition", Mr de Rossa urged colleagues to consider going into government.

Ocionnaith An absolute moron as evidenced on countless occasions notably the handling of the water issue.

Ocionnaith Marching powder?

Ocionnaith

Ocionnaith It’s “wanker”

Ocionnaith Death nail in the labour coffin!

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