Gilmore makes first bid for leadership

EAMON GILMORE yesterday became the first Labour TD to formally declare his candidacy for the leadership of the party.

The Dún Laoghaire-based member had already been installed by bookmakers as the overwhelming favourite to succeed Pat Rabbitte following Brendan Howlin’s decision not to contest the leadership.

Mr Gilmore received an immediate boost when Kildare North TD Emmet Stagg indicated immediate support for him. Kildare North boasts one of the larger branches of the party membership and Mr Stagg’s decision to support Mr Gilmore is likely to heavily influence local members.