PDs remain FFs preference in coalition

THE Progressive Democrats remained its first preference for a coalition alliance, according to the Fianna Fail leader, Mr Bertie Ahern, last night. His remark followed a two-day meeting of the party's front bench to prepare the blueprint for its election manifesto.

"I can't rule out whatever combination the Irish people turn up at the end of the day," Mr Ahern said, adding that he was determined that Fianna Fail would win the election. At the private meeting in the Grand Hotel, Malahide, all front-bench members presented a policy paper in their areas and were later subjected to a question-and-answer session on policy priorities.

The Fianna Fail chief whip, Mr Dermot Ahern, said afterwards that the election manifesto was "near completion".

It is understood that the party plans to publish documents on major policy issues within weeks. The final touches will be put to the manifesto after next week's Budget.

Mr Ahern said that the party was never in its history more prepared for an election. It would be operating on an election footing from now on, he added.