An Taoiseach Brian Cowen has responded to criticism by Fianna Fáil backbenchers over his leadership, saying the Government has to be disciplined.
Speaking this afternoon, Mr Cowen said he would not draw any conclusion based on Fianna Fáil Deputy MJ Nolan's expressed sentiments of disappointment today.
Earlier today Minister for Transport Noel Dempsey said he would prefer if Oireachtas members who had issues with the Taoiseach or the Cabinet would raise the matters in the parliamentary party.
Speaking in Dundalk, Minister Dempsey said the Government is 'rock solid' and intended to carry on its work.
However, he acknowledged that criticising the party leadership and Cabinet 'causes its own problems' and distractions, particularly in the media, which in turn could cause unease among the public.
Asked if there was there a growing number of disaffected backbenchers, Mr Dempsey said there were always disappointments after a reshuffle and people expressed their views in private.
Speaking in New Ross, Minister for Justice Dermot Ahern said he does not expect any disciplinary measures to be taken against any Fianna Fáil deputies who have criticised Brian Cowen.
He said people are entitled to their own views and that it is a big parliamentary party, adding that no one is going to tell them not to express their views.
