Broughan to confirm leadership bid

There is growing speculation that Tommy Broughan will confirm within the next 24 hours whether he is to contest the leadership of the Labour Party.

The Dublin North East TD is said to have spent the past week assessing whether or not he has enough support within the party at all levels.

Although he described Pat Rabbite as an outstanding politician, Broughan differed greatly from him about entering into the pre-election alliance with Fine Gael.

But with nominations closing on Thursday, time is running out for Tommy Broughan.

Furthermore, Eamon Gilmore has emerged as the front-runner to succeed Pat Rabbitte, who resigned last month.

His endorsement by Ruari Quinn and the decision by Brendan Howlin and Liz McManus not to contest the leadership have put Gilmore in the commanding position.