Coughlan expresses support for Taoiseach

The Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs, Mary Coughlan, has expressed her support for the Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, following criticism of his handling of the Ray Burke scandal.

Ms Coughlan said today that Mr Ahern has the full support of his party, despite rumours of back-bench opposition.

She also said that the Taoiseach was hurt by reports that he allegedly received a bribe and that Fianna Fail deputy leader Brian Cowen was annoyed at suggestions that he was being lined up as the party’s new leader.

“We are a united party, we are working together and there’s absolutely no question of a split or disloyalty to our Taoiseach,” she added.