09/06/2009

Government Backbenchers Mount Revolt

Following the unprecedented Fianna Fail losses at the local and European elections, the party's backbenchers are predicting Brian Cowen will no longer be Taoiseach within months.

Education Minister Batt O'Keeffe has reportedly cancelled plans to attend an EU meeting in Brussels so he could be in the Dáil for the crunch vote of no confidence in the Government, which Fine Gael has tabled for tomorrow.

The move shows there is concern in the party that a backbench revolt may be growing, and could lead to an historic defeat in the crucial vote on Wednesday.

There is abounding speculation that a cabinet reshuffle will take place, but many backbenchers are saying this would not be enough to win back confidence in Brian Cowen's leadership.

Early reports are saying the Taniaste Mary Coughlan is in line for the chop from her currently influential role.

The cabinet reshuffle is expected in the autumn. Ms Coughlan's performance in the job has apparently caused growing unease within Fianna Fail, after she made several questionable remarks since being appointed to the role last year.

(DW/JM)

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