Time will tell if Martin’s move will reap success

IF anybody questioned Micheál Martin’s motivation for challenging for the leadership of Fianna Fáil, then the post-heave wave of admiration and support for the former minister provided the answer.

The move — which should have come 12 months ago — has seen his star rise again, conveniently just in time for a general election campaign. Like many other current TDs, seat preservation is the order of the day.

Martin will vie for the Fianna Fáil leadership following the party’s demise and Mr Cowen’s resignation after voters go to the polls.