MARTIN QUITS

MICHEÁL MARTIN dramatically resigned as Foreign Affairs Minister last night after failing in his efforts to oust Brian Cowen as Fianna Fáil leader.

Following a three-hour meeting, Fianna Fáil’s 71 TDs voted and passed a motion of confidence in Mr Cowen’s leadership, meaning he will lead the party into the general election.

Immediately after the outcome of the secret ballot, Mr Martin, who had urged TDs to vote against the Taoiseach, told Mr Cowen he was resigning.