Hayes denies bid for Europe linked to role in failed heave against Kenny

Junior Finance Minister Brian Hayes has denied his decision to seek a Fine Gael nomination to run for the European Parliament is because he took part in the failed 2010 heave against party leader Enda Kenny.

The Dublin South West TD yesterday declared his intention to run in the May elections, an indication that he did not believe he was heading for a promotion in the expected Cabinet reshuffle in the summer.

Fine Gael sources believe the talented TD, who is viewed by many colleagues to be a future leader of the party, was unlikely to be promoted to a full ministry despite his high profile role in defending Government policy for almost three years. It appears he is still paying the price for backing the Richard Bruton-led heave.