Harney to remain on as PD leader until at least September

The Progressive Democrats' national executive has decided not to choose a new leader for the party for at least another three months.

At a meeting last night, the executive decided that Mary Harney should remain on as acting leader until September at the earliest.

It also decided to begin a review of procedures that would allow for a non-TD to lead the party.

The move follows the PDs' disastrous election performance in May.

Their only two TDs, Ms Harney and Noel Grealish, both say they do not want the leadership.

Party president and former Laois-Offaly TD Tom Parlon is regarded as favourite to get the job due to his experience as a former leader of the Irish Farmers Association.