The Minister of State for the Department of Health, Kathleen Lynch criticised Fine Gael, and Minister Simon Coveney in particular, for talking about a possible coalition with Fianna Fáil after the next election.

Ms Lynch has accused the Minister for Agriculture of being 'disloyal' for suggesting Fine Gael could enter into partnership with Fianna Fáil following the next general election.

"We've stood by Fine Gael. It's a bit disloyal now at a certain level to be making that kind of remark. But then again, Simon is involved in two battles. One with Leo Varadkar, and one with the electorate", she told Newstalk's Lunchtime.

Her comments come in light of a number of Fine Gael backbenchers already stating they disagree with the Agriculture Minister.