Fianna Fail may lose votes at the next General Election if the party is forced to depend on Sinn Fein for support in the Dail, former Taoiseach Dr Garret Fitzgerald said tonight.
As he launched a book of political sketches in Dublin, the ex-Fine Gael leader also described the Government's decentralisation programme as 'an appalling business.'
In his speech, Dr FitzGerald appeared to cast doubt on Fianna Fail's ability to win enough support in the Dail to form a Government with parties other than Sinn Fein.
Fianna Fail has already ruled out sharing a coalition Government with Sinn Fein after the next General Election.
But Dr FitzGerald said tonight: "If during the election campaign it becomes clear that Fianna Fail is in difficulty and may have to depend on Sinn Fein for support to form a Government in the Dail, then it may influence the way the electorate votes.
He added: "It may influence the outcome of the election."
Tonight's launch of Party Animalswritten by author and broadcaster Olivia O'Leary was also attended by Tanaiste and Progressive Democrats leader Michael McDowell and Labour leader Pat Rabbitte.
Dr FitzGerald also said he agreed with the Government's decision not to allow free access to Ireland's labour market to citizens from the incoming EU member states of Bulgaria and Romania.
"I suggested the same thing recently and I agree with the position," he said.
PA