TDs warn of FF ‘blood-bath’ over leadership heave

THERE will be a “bloodbath” in Fianna Fáil if rivals mount a challenge to Brian Cowen’s leadership, with those close to the Taoiseach warning they will fight back.

Fianna Fáil backbenchers still supporting their leader said there remains a “core group loyal to the Taoiseach” who are strong enough to stand up to any heave.

But one of the growing number who want to see a change in leadership said “that crowd wouldn’t see the wood from the trees” and there is no way they’d have enough support.