Taoiseach clings to power as leadership contenders silent

TAOISEACH Brian Cowen clung on to power against the wishes of many of his Fianna Fáil colleagues who he told if they want him gone they can come and get him.

For the sixth time in a year his leadership was the subject of debate at the parliamentary meeting, but once again a viable rival failed to emerge to challenge him.

Opponents and supporters had almost universally expected the leader of Fianna Fáil to use yesterday’s meeting to announce his resignation and clear the way for a leadership race.