Opposition condemns ‘shabby political stroke’

BRIAN Cowen’s administration was brought down by attempting a “shabby political stroke”, according to opposition parties.

Labour leader Eamon Gilmore insisted there was no need for ministers to resign simply because they would not be standing at the election in a few weeks time.

“The Taoiseach attempted a stroke and it backfired. He ended up as a Taoiseach without authority. He no longer has the authority to do the most essential thing for a Taoiseach, which is to appoint the members of Government,” he said.