A walkover win for FF's crown prince Cowen
Ahern's successor declared after 'no contest'
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Brian Cowen was officially declared the only nominee for leadership of Fianna Fail and will officially become Fianna Fail leader later this week.
As expected, Cowen was the only name put forward following messages of support from his main rivals in the wake of Taoiseach Bertie Ahern's resignation. In the absence of another candidate, there will be no election for the position.
A special meeting of the parliamentary party will rubber stamp Cowen as leader on Wednesday evening. Mr Cowen will then be nominated for the position of Taoiseach on May 7.
Speaking yesterday, Mr Cowen said: "I am deeply honoured by the confidence shown in me by the members of the Parliamentary Party.
"It is a reflection of the support of the wider Fianna Fail membership throughout the country. I am grateful for that overwhelming endorsement of my candidacy for the leadership of the party at this time."
Speculation has now turned to Mr Cowen's likely cabinet reshuffle. The Sunday Independent understands that a number of senior ministers could be shown the door as Mr Cowen aims to add new life to the cabinet table.
Mary Hanafin, who is not close to Mr Cowen and who has seen her star fall dramatically in the past 12 months, is one potential casualty of the Cowen Cull. The nationally unpopular Martin Cullen may also be in danger.
Arts Minister Seamus Brennan could also stand aside amid growing concerns over his health. The very likeable Mr Brennan has had some health difficulties in recent months and his departure could enable Cowen to add at least one or two fresh faces to the cabinet table.
Cowen is very popular among the backbenchers within Fianna Fail and could very well want to recruit new blood even for a number of the junior ministries.
Enterprise Minister Micheal Martin is an early contender for the position of Finance Minister, along with Dermot Ahern and Mary Coughlan, but the Corkman said that the appointment was entirely a matter for Mr Cowen.
Speaking to the Sunday Independent, Mr Martin refused to comment on what he dismissed as "idle speculation" that he would like the positions of Tanaiste and Minister for Finance.
"Brian Cowen is his own man and he can make up his own mind. It is entirely a matter for the Taoiseach," he said.
Mr Martin said he would not be drawn about possible ministerial portfolio changes -- and bluntly refused to comment on the fact bookmakers rank him as favourite to takeover Brian Cowen's old position in the Department of Finance.
"I ain't going there -- I am not going to engage in any speculation whatsoever -- it is entirely a matter for the Taoiseach when he is elected.
"As far as I am concerned, I am available to serve and I would consider it a privilege to be able to serve if I am given that opportunity," he said.
- Daniel McConnell and Ralph Riegel
