Taoiseach Enda Kenny is expected to bring former Fine Gael strategist Frank Flannery back into the party fold to work on general election strategy.

He resigned as Fine Gael's director of elections and party trustee last March in the wake of controversy over his role as a board member with the Rehab Group.

Fionnan Sheahan - group political editor with the Irish Independent - says the Taoiseach has held talks with Frank Flannery about returning to the party:

He stated: "This is very much 'watch this space' at the moment."

Earlier this year, the Taoiseach played down the extent of a row with his former advisor. Mr Kenny says he is still on very good terms with his former head of elections.