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.