Jim O’Callaghan believes that his party should consider getting into bed with Sinn Féin in the future, writes Ali Bracken

The man many have tipped as Taoiseach Micheál Martin’s successor as leader of Fianna Fáil is in a candid and optimistic mood. Jim O’Callaghan fully supports the easing of restrictions in the coming days after six weeks of oppressive lockdown.

“People need a bit of relief,” explains the Fianna Fáil TD, affectionately known as ‘Big Jim’ to his friends and colleagues in Dáil Éireann and the Four Courts.

“It’s going to be a different Christmas. But the most important thing is that we put in place a plan for the New Year when we’re going to roll out the new vaccine. I’m pleased to see the Government have a team in place. I want to see more from that team. I want to see as much of that team in the New Year as I’ve seen of Nphet this year.”