Gilmore: FF leadership issue distracting Government politicians

Opposition parties have been quick to respond to Taoiseach Cowen's decision not to stand down.

Labour Leader Eamon Gilmore says it means the Fianna Fáil leadership will continue to be the sole focus of attention for Ministers and party TDs at a time when everyone's efforts should be directed towards turning the country around.

While, Sinn Féin's leader in the Dáil, Caoimhghin Ó Caoláin, said it was clear Brian Cowen was determined to prolong the life of what he called "a disastrous Government that should have been hunted from office long ago".