Lemass invoked as FF appoints seventh leader

BRIAN COWEN invoked the spirit of Seán Lemass yesterday when setting out his political agenda, saying national progress could only be built on an “upsurge of patriotism”.

He was elected unopposed as Fianna Fáil’s seventh leader at a specially convened meeting of party TDs at Leinster House.

Mr Cowen will be referred to as leader-designate until May 6 when Taoiseach Bertie Ahern resigns. The following day, he will be elected as taoiseach in the Dáil.