Coughlan backs Taoiseach's version of FitzPatrick discussion

The Tánaiste Mary Coughlan has said she fully supports the Taoiseach's version of his discussion with former banker Seán FitzPatrick.

Ms Coughlan has also lashed out at Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny saying "he wants to be Taoiseach but won't believe the truth".

She said: "Brian Cowen has dealt with the issue of what happened at and after the golf game two months before the bank guarantee was put in place."

Elsewhere, Fianna Fáil TD Mary O'Rourke believes it is too late now for a heave against Mr Cowen.

The Longford Westmeath TD said she believes any effort to mount a challenge to Brian Cowen this close to a general election would be "futile".

All eyes will be on the Fianna Fáil parliamentary party meeting which gets underway at midday today.

Deputy O'Rourke said Mr Cowen will face tough questioning about his Anglo dealings at this afternoons meeting, but that is where it will end.