03/04/2008

Martin Pulls Himself Out Of Race

Enterprise Minister, Micheál Martin has declined the opportunity to run for Taoiseach.

The former secondary school teacher has instead endorsed the current favourite to take office, Brian Cowen.

Speaking on RTÉ’s Radio One Morning Ireland programme, Mr Martin said he would not contesting the election. He further said he believed Mr Ahern’s had a clear successor.

Mr Martin adds to the list of TD’s already putting supporting Mr Cowen as the new leader of Fianna Fail, and the Daíl.

The Minister for Family and Social Affairs, Martin Cullen, has also said that he will be supporting Brian Cowen, and Justice Minister Brian Lenihan also ruled himself out of the running, advocating Cowen for leader.

It is thought Mr Ahern’s successor could be announced as early as next week, and senior figures in Fianna Fail are due to meet to discuss the terms of a takeover.

(DW)


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