Taoiseach bids to save legacy in valedictory Dáil speech

BRIAN COWEN will make a last-ditch attempt to rescue his political legacy and defend the decisions he made as Taoiseach when he delivers his valedictory speech to the Dáil today.

He is expected to name February 25 as the date for the general election, which he last night announced he will not be contending.

When the 30th Dáil gathers for the last time at 2.30pm, Mr Cowen will be given an unlimited time allocation to deliver the final words of what is widely acknowledged as a disastrous reign.

It will be followed by comments from opposition leaders who are understood to be planning brief remarks in which they will try to strike a balance between a dignified tribute to Mr Cowen and his achievements and a critique of the record of this Fianna Fáil Government.

So far, 34 sitting TDs, including 19 from Fianna Fáil, have announced they are not contesting the election.

They will be entitled to make a final speech to the Dáil.

But the ceann comhairle is likely to put strict limits on these speeches and it is expected the day’s proceedings will have wound up by 5pm.

Mr Cowen will depart immediately for Áras an Uachtaráin to ask President Mary McAleese to sign off on the dissolution of the 30th Dáil.

By law, once the President issues a proclamation dissolving the Dáil, a general election must be held within 17 to 28 days, excluding Sundays.

This allows up to March 2 but because this is a Wednesday, it is expected to be held on the previous Friday — February 25 which has the added benefit of schools being closed for mid-term break.

After the President has issued the proclamation, a writ will be issued to the returning officer in every constituency directing him or her to hold an election.

Minister for Local Government Éamon Ó Cuív will then formally set polling day and put all the relevant procedures in place.