Cowen appeals for troops’ support

BRIAN COWEN insisted he trusts his Cabinet colleagues and appealed for support from his backbenchers, who warned he must prove his leadership for once and for all.

The Taoiseach said he intends to see out his full term, after he came under criticism from a second Cabinet colleague, who said he had “insulted” the people of the country by his poor radio performance on Tuesday morning.

As both Fine Gael and Labour said they are preparing for a general election any day, Mr Cowen fought back saying: “I do not expect a general election any day soon.”