The refusal of the Taoiseach, Mr Ahern, to consider the possibility of a coalition with Sinn Féin has been derided by Cllr Martin Ferris, a leading SF party figure.
Last week, Mr Ahern said SF's participation in government after the general election would "not be tenable" because of the continued existence of the IRA.
"How come it is tenable for Sinn Féin to participate in government in the six counties and in the North-South Ministerial Council side by side with the Taoiseach's Cabinet colleagues? Is it because the Taoiseach regards the IRA as legitimate in that jurisdiction but not in this?" asked Cllr Ferris.
"I think the electorate should be told plainly by the Taoiseach that he regards votes cast for Sinn Féin as less valid than those cast for other parties, and TDs elected for Sinn Féin as less qualified to represent the people. Because if no party emerges with a clear majority, then all parties whose numbers in Leinster House make them relevant must be considered in the negotiations to form a government," he said. The challenge came during a speech in Co Monaghan by Cllr Ferris to mark the 45th anniversary of the deaths of Mr Feargal O'Hanlon and Mr Seán South during an attack on an RUC barracks on New Year's Day in 1957.
Sinn Féin would make significant gains in the upcoming general election, he claimed. "I look forward to taking my place on that team," said the Kerry North candidate, who was jailed for gun-running and IRA membership in the 1980s after he was captured on board the Marita Ann.
