Barry Cowen voices ambition for top Fianna Fáil job

Fianna Fáil TD Barry Cowen has declared his desire to follow his brother Brian and become leader of the party.

Speaking ahead of the deputy leaders’ debate on TV3 last night, Mr Cowen said he was chosen by the party leadership because he was available and in close distance to Dublin.

“It is only by virtue of who is available and who can make it to Dublin that I am doing it. Nothing more can be read into it,” he said.