Martin resigns following confidence motion

Following Brian Cowen’s victory in the Fianna Fáil confidence motion tonight, Micheál Martin has offered his resignation to the Taoiseach who has accepted it.

The Cork TD said he had no regrets and the agreement that he would go from Cabinet if unsuccessful, was agreed last weekend.

“During our discussions at the weekend, myself and the Taoiseach agreed that my immediate resignation might have a destabilising impact on the Government,” he stated tonight.

“However, I was clear that I would insist on my resignation if my views did not prevail in the vote.

“I have therefore tendered my resignation as Minister for Foreign Affairs.”