Rumblings continue on Cowen leadership

Rumblings of a possible leadership challenge within Fianna Fáil are being described as the "subplot" to yesterday's Budget.

Speculation is mounting that the Finance Minister Brian Lenihan may put his name forward to take over from Brian Cowen.

However, the Taoiseach has hit back and has reaffirmed his intention to lead Fianna Fáil into the next election.

"I am the elected leader of this party and the Taoiseach of this country," said Cowen. "I don’t divest my authority to anyone in that."

Party backbencher Mary O'Rourke, who is Minister Lenihan's aunt, said that this statement has brought clarity to the situation.

Deputy O'Rourke, who has previously called for a meeting about Mr Cowen's leadership, told Midlands 103: "I welcome Brian Cowen’s statement, it was quite straightforward: 'Listen guys, I'm here, I’m bringing you into the next election, so buckle down'."