TDs rethinking their decision on confidence vote

SHELL-SHOCKED Fianna Fáil TDs have begun to question if Taoiseach Brian Cowen can be overthrown as party leader just two days after voting confidence in his stewardship.

Minister Mary Hanafin, who has been given extra responsibilities for Enterprise and Trade, said the Taoiseach’s attempt to promote five backbenchers to ministerial posts was “cynical”.

She said she told Mr Cowen of her views at a meeting yesterday morning and asked him not to proceed.