Lenihan launches leadership campaign

Brian Lenihan has launched his campaign for the leadership of Fianna Fáil.

The Minister for Finance has set his candidacy at a press conference in central Dublin.

He said he has been repairing the consequences of the economic downturn and pledged to work with like-minded parties on a "radical transformation" of the political system.

And he said he has the experience, vision and capability to lead the party.

"Leadership is about substance…The most effective method of leadership is to be frank with the people about what needs to be done," he said.

Mary Hanafin earlier confirmed her candidacy and testerday, Foreign Affairs Minister Micheal Martin and the Minister for Social Protection Eamon O'Cuiv put their names forward for a party vote to be held on Wednesday.

There is also the possibility of a fifth candidate with Minister of State Conor Lenihan saying this morning he would consider putting himself forward.