Fury over Kenny’s threat to sack Bruton supporters

A VEILED threat by Fine Gael leader, Enda Kenny, to sack those who support a leadership heave against him, is expected to spark fury among some of the party’s front bench loyal to his challenger, Richard Bruton.

Mr Kenny said last night it was with regret that he dismissed Mr Bruton – his “great friend of 25 years” – from the position of finance minister and deputy leader, and warned of the years of division that could be caused in the party by the heave.

Mr Kenny will face a motion of confidence in his leadership on Thursday which he hopes will “end the bickering” and undo “the damage that is done by unnamed spokespeople and unnamed public representatives making comments to the detriment of Fine Gael.”