Hanafin ready to challenge Martin in FF race

MINISTER Mary Hanafin has said she would run against her cabinet colleague Micheál Martin in a battle to lead Fianna Fáil.

The Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport said a leadership contest would be a good thing for the party and reiterated her leadership ambitions, despite speculation she would act as a “stalking horse” for Mr Martin.

Brian Cowen is expected to decide over the Christmas holidays whether or not to stay on as leader of Fianna Fáil for the general election and sources believe he will make the matter clear early in the new year.