Cowen takes the reins of Fianna Fáil

Taoiseach-in-waiting Brian Cowen will today be officially elected Fianna Fáil leader after a parliamentary party meeting in Leinster House.

The Offaly TD is set to be appointed head of the Republic of Ireland’s Government when the Dáil meets on May 7 after Bertie Ahern formally stands down from office.

Mr Cowen will become the seventh leader of the party, which was founded by Eamon De Valera in 1926.

Last night the Tánaiste and Finance Minister criticised media speculation about the composition of his new Cabinet.

Speaking before a book launch event in Dublin, Mr Cowen told reporters: “Anything you may write is pure and utter speculation.

“So any senior sources or otherwise that are talking to you do not know my mind because I will not be sharing my counsel with them for obvious reasons.

“They are far too friendly and close to you for me to be doing that.”

Mr Cowen, 48, was speaking before launching The Far Side of Revenge – a book on the Northern peace process by author Deaglan de Breadun.

Meanwhile, former Taoiseach Albert Reynolds, who promoted Mr Cowen from the backbenches in 1992, said he wasn’t surprised he has reached the top job.

He said: “He was very bright. He was never behind the door in giving his view, whether you like it or not.

“He was that sort of man and that’s the sort of man who is good for politics.”

He added: “I’m very proud of him and I think the country will be very proud of him too.”