Hanafin fourth confirmed candidate

A spokesperson for Mary Hanafin has confirmed she is throwing her name into the hat to become the next leader of Fianna Fáil.

No other comment will be made on the matter tonight, the spokesperson said.

Tourism Minister Hanafin becomes the fourth senior Fianna Fáil figure to confirm their interest in the post vacated this afternoon by Brian Cowen.

Former foreign affairs minister Micheál Martin and current Cabinet colleagues Brian Lenihan and Eamon Ó Cúiv have also publicly stated their intention to run.

Nominations for the leadership tussle will close at 1pm on Monday, while a vote will be held by secret ballot at 2pm on Wednesday.