One of Ireland's newest TDs has dismissed concerns about the impact of a high number of independents in the Dail.

It follows comments from former minister Pat Rabbitte at the weekend, who warned it will prove difficult to form a coalition after the next general election.

Two new deputies will be introduced to the Dail on budget day tomorrow - Independent Michael Fitzmaurice and Anti-Austerity Alliance deputy Paul Murphy, who won their seats in weekend by-elections.

The victory of Mr Fitzmaurice is seen as a blow for Fianna Fail, as their candidate was the favourite for the vacancy created by the departure of Luke 'Ming' Flanagan to Europe.

Roscommon-South Leitrim Deputy Fitzmaurice told Newstalk Breakfast he is adamant independent representatives can be brought together on policies.

While former Fine Gael TD Denis Naughten says the public are turning to Independents becuase of they have "had enough" of political point scoring.

The Roscommon/South Leitrim Deputy says the Dáil chamber is losing relevance to the lives of ordinary people.

While the Fianna Fáil justice spokesperson Niall Collins says party leader Micheal Martin is "not the problem", despite its failure to win a seat in the by-elections.

Mr Collins says he accepts Fianna Fáil is "not progressing enough" - but believes criticism of the party's performance is "over the top".

A number of TDs are said to be disillusioned with Micheal Martin's leadership - and the failure of the party to capitalise on public anger over the water charges.

Mr Collins told Newstalk Breakfast the party will recover, but it will take time.