Martin vows to vote against Cowen

Foreign Affairs Minister Micheál Martin has tendered his resignation to Taoiseach Brian Cowen and will vote against him in a motion of confidence this week as leader of the ruling Fianna Fáil party.

After Mr Cowen challenged rebel ministers and backbenchers to vote him out, Mr Martin confirmed he would fight for a change in leadership.

Mr Martin said the Taoiseach indicated he believes his resignation is not necessary.

Mr Martin – singled out as Mr Cowen’s main challenger – now faces the task of drumming up enough rebel support to oust the Taoiseach in a secret ballot.

“I welcome the decision of the Taoiseach to table a vote of confidence in himself at next Tuesday’s parliamentary party meeting. I will, in accordance with my views, be voting against the motion of confidence,” Mr Martin said.

“In these circumstances, I have offered my resignation to the Taoiseach.”

Mr Martin confirmed he would stay on as Foreign Affairs Minister at the Taoiseach’s request.

“I have reluctantly concluded that, in these circumstances, Fianna Fáil should change its leader before the election and I have informed the Taoiseach of this view,” Mr Martin said.

“Having talked to most members of the parliamentary party and many members of the party across the country I believe this is a widely held view.”