Government to put Bruton’s name forward, says Martin

THE Government will support former Fine Gael taoiseach John Bruton and put his name forward for the post of EU President, Foreign Minister Micheál Martin confirmed during the two-day summit of EU leaders in Brussels last night.

Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny is today writing to the prime ministers of 10 EU states who are all members of the European People’s Party (EPP) asking for their support.

The main opposition party is a member of the EPP and their support would be vital in securing the post. They hold most seats in the European Parliament and more governments are members than of any of the other groups.