Fianna Fáil rebel calls for others to join him

The Fianna Fáil backbencher who has called on Brian Cowen to consider his position says the rest of those who are unhappy should follow suit.

Former Junior Minister John McGuinness today declared that the Taoiseach was a weak leader, claiming that Cowen put the party and tribalism before the good of the country.

Labour leader Eamon Gilmore said he may table a full Dáil motion of no confidence in Brian Cowen if he gets a sense there is support for it on the Fianna Fáil and independent backbenches.

It is understood the pack of disgruntled backbenchers would need the signatures of 25 TDs in order to get an internal motion of no confidence debated at the Parliamentary Party.