McDowell tight-lipped about leadership intentions

Minister for Justice Michael McDowell is remaining tight-lipped this morning about his intentions in relation to the leadership of the Progressive Democrats.

Mr McDowell is widely expected to put his name forward for the job, but he has made no comment on the matter so far today.

Staff at his constituency office say they know nothing of his intentions.

Monday is the closing date for nominations to the leadership position.

If more than one candidate applies, an election must be held within two months, with the new leader decided by a system of three electoral colleges.

The first group is made up the party's TDs and Senators and has 40% of the total vote.

The rank-and-file membership has 30% of the vote, while the remaining 30% goes to the national executive and the party's councillors across the country.