McDowell could be sole PD leadership candidate

It is looking increasingly likely that Justice Minister Michael McDowell will win the leadership of the Progressive Democrat Party unopposed.

He is one of three party members who are believed to be possible candidates, however so far neither he nor Tom Parlon or Liz O'Donnell have formally applied for the position.

A substantial number of the party's TDs, Senators and Councillors are registering their support for the Minister Mc Dowell to replace Mary Harney as party leader.

Galway West TD Noel Grealish said a leadership battle at this stage would be divisive.

“Well I hope that it would. I think it’s vitally important we have a smooth transition from one leader to another,” he said

“As it’s so close to the general election, I don’t think it would be the right move to have a leadership contest. Hopefully on Monday there will be only one candidate and it’ll be a smooth transition.”