A Laois-based Independent TD has declared his support for the Government ahead of a no confidence motion proposed by Sinn Féin.
Cathal Berry, who is a TD for Kildare South, a constituency that includes Portarlington, Killenard and Ballybrittas has said that he has met with government ministers in recent days.
The Sinn Féin motion, which is the sixth of its kind in five years, would trigger a General Election and mean an emergency budget would not be possible.
Despite the Government losing their majority last week following Fine Gael TD Joe McHugh losing the party whip, it’s expected that a number of independents around the country will vote against the Sinn Féin motion.
As a strong advocate for the Defence Forces, he has cited the increase in Defence investment in his statement offering his support to the Government.
“Having engaged with senior government ministers in recent days on the political priorities in my constituency, I am satisfied that the increased Defence investment being approved by cabinet this morning represents a significant step in the right direction for our Defence Forces and our country,” said Deputy Berry.
“While a multitude of problems remain unresolved, this package does at least provide funding for the hiring of additional people, the construction of more modern premises, and an increase in take home pay for our lowest paid personnel.
“Particular credit is due to the military representative associations, veterans groups, wives & partners and other advocates who campaigned so fiercely for these long overdue improvements.
“It has taken more than a decade for our armed forces to get into this crisis; it will take more than a day for them to get out of it.
“I therefore look forward to further direct engagement with the Taoiseach, Tánaiste and Minister for Defence on addressing the still significant, yet unresolved issues in the weeks and months ahead.
“On this basis I will be supporting the government in today’s motion of confidence”.
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