THE Fianna Fail leader, Mr Bertie Ahern, has suggested that his chief whip, Mr Dermot Ahern, may have "hit a bit too hard" in his recent criticisms of the Progressive Democrats on a local radio programme, reports Geraldine Kennedy, Political Correspondent. He was referring to Mr Ahern's comments to Fine Gael TD Mr Jim O'Keeffe, that his party would be "in the driving seat" in a future coalition with the PDs, who would have an "insignificant say".
Meanwhile, the Fianna Fail leader sent a number of emissaries to the PDs at the weekend with the message that such comments would not be made publicly again. It is understood he did not speak personally to the PD leader, Ms Mary Harney.