Sinn Féin TD Sandra McLellan is believed to have contacted the Independent Alliance about joining the grouping if her party did not back her in an ongoing party row.

The Cork East TD has been at the centre of a party review which led to the expulsion of one councillor and the suspension of another. It is understood the deputy was assured she had the support of the party and agreed to remain in the party.

A spokesman for Sinn Féin denied this was the case and Ms McLellan was unavailable for comment last night.

Ms McLellan is to face a challenge to get on to the party’s general election ticket after the findings of the review.

An internal party investigation into structures in Cork East also led to the expulsion of councillor Kieran McCarthy and the suspension of councillor Melissa Mullane.

Cllr McCarthy said he would be appealing the decision and had met with his solicitor. A number of members from the Fermoy cumann resigned over the controversy.

A spokesman for Sinn Féin confirmed senior figures from the party are to travel to Cork to meet with party members and outline the findings of the report.