Taoiseach rejects case-by-case support from Independent TDs for government votes

Taoiseach Micheál Martin dismissed claims that Independent TDs could vote on government issues "case-by-case." He clarified that this was not the government's understanding and emphasized the importance of strong support for the government. Independent TDs, including Barry Heneghan and Gillian Toole, had argued they should not be seen as backbenchers. Their assertion reportedly upset senior government leaders. Martin expressed a desire for stability and a five-year government term. He acknowledged the need for cooperation with Independents but noted that the government has not faced major challenges yet.