Controversial TD Jim McDaid quits Dail

The shock resignation is a blow to the Government as it leaves the need for a fourth by-election.

Dr McDaid's office would not comment on the development when contacted by the Herald this morning.

However, it is understood that the Donegal North East TD has been in contact with the Clerk of the Dail to submit his resignation.

It will be accepted as a matter of course and Dr McDaid will then vacate his seat.

The controversial politician left Fianna Fail last year after an internal row in his Donegal constituency.

He had also been a vocal opponent of the Government policy relating to the cervical cancer vaccine.

The Government was not relying on his vote in the Dail but Taoiseach Brian Cowen recently hinted that he would like to see Dr McDaid and other dissidents brought back into the party fold.

“We have continued support from those party members who are not in the Parliamentary Party but who are supporting the Government consistently on all major issues to date,” the Taoiseach said.