The Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin says he does not anticipate Bertie Ahern rejoining the party.

The former Taoiseach has been invited by his local branch to come back into the fold.

Party HQ says any application for membership would be considered as is the procedure for any citizen.

Speaking to Tipp FM Mr Martin said the news of Dublin Central inviting Mr Ahern to rejoin came out of the blue.

He said: “Bertie resigned four years ago in the aftermath of the Mahon Tribunal and he effectively retired from politics.

“I think he has been enjoying retirement. Nothing has changed since four years ago, I don’t anticipate Bertie Ahern coming back into the party.”