Cowen 'confident' about local elections despite polls

The Taoiseach Brian Cowen has said he is confident that his party's recent drop in popularity will not affect its performance in the upcoming elections.

The latest opinion polls have consistently put the party at historic lows, with Mr Cowen's satisfaction rating badly hit.

The Taoiseach will be meeting with local candidates around the country in the coming weeks to discuss their strategy for the elections in June.

Speaking at a rally in Limerick last night, he said the party's resources are strong.