Blaney to decide his position on Constitution

An Independent TD, Mr Harry Blaney, is expected to meet his constituency organisation in Donegal North East on Monday to discuss what approach he should take to the proposed amendments to Articles 2 and 3 of the Constitution.

Mr Harry Blaney TD: may withdraw his support for the Government over Articles 2 and 3

Mr Blaney indicated in the past that his support for the Government could be withdrawn if there were changes in Articles 2 and 3.

His support, and that of his fellow Independents, Mr Jackie Healy-Rae, Kerry South, and Ms Mildred Fox, Wicklow, is crucial for the long-term survival of the Government.

If it loses the Cork South Central by-election, as seems likely, the additional loss of Mr Blaney's support would deprive it of a working majority.

A spokeswoman for Mr Blaney told The Irish Times yesterday he was not available for comment because of pressure of constituency work. However, he did tell Highland Radio he had not made a decision on the matter and would be consulting his constituency organisation before doing so.

That meeting is likely to be held in Letterkenny on Monday, but it may be later in the week before Mr Blaney makes his position clear.

The three Independents supporting the Government have signed agreements with the Taoiseach, Mr Ahern. According to Mr Blaney, part of the agreement states that "Articles 2 and 3 of the Constitution would not be amended until there was a fully agreed overall settlement of the national question".

Last month, Mr Blaney had a three-hour meeting with the Taoiseach and his senior adviser, Dr Martin Mansergh, to discuss his concerns about amending the articles.

Afterwards, he referred to his written agreement with the Taoiseach, adding: "If they don't adhere to that situation, I cannot support the Government. How can I? The deal is off if they don't live up to this."

Constituency sources said yesterday that Mr Blaney would be reluctant to break with the Government and end his access to the Taoiseach and Ministers on constituency matters. However, in the past he has said that Articles 2 and 3 as well as abortion were "sacrosanct," - a view believed to be shared by many within his local organisation.

It is believed their eventual decision could be influenced any decision on the proposed constitutional change at this weekend's Sinn Fein ardfheis.