Cowen rejects resignation claims
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Irish Taoiseach Brian Cowen today rejected claims he intends to resign after Budget 2011 is unveiled.
The Taoiseach insisted he had given no indication to party colleagues in Fianna Fail that he would step aside to allow a new leader to fight the imminent general election.
Mr Cowen outlined his intentions after claims from one of his backbenchers that he was set to go before Christmas.
Kildare South TD Sean Power said it was his understanding that the Taoiseach would not be at the helm when the party faces the electorate in the new year.
Ahead of unveiling the coalition Government's four year plan to make 15 billion euro (£12 billion) in savings, Mr Cowen rejected the notion.
"I have given no such indication to anybody, including Deputy Power," he told the Dail (parliament).
Mr Power is the latest Fianna Fail backbencher to break ranks and question Mr Cowen's position since the multi billion international bail out of the state's debt ridden finances was announced.
But while Mr Cowen has faced criticism from some in his party, high profile Cabinet colleagues have remained publicly loyal and no leadership bid has materialised.
Members of Fianna Fail's parliamentary held a crunch meeting last night to discuss the crisis, but the Taoiseach's position was not challenged.
While Mr Cowen has indicated his intention to call an election after the budget is passed, he has steered clear of specific questions about the poll, insisting that focus should remain on the spending plans.
Mr Power questioned the leader's position in his local radio station Kildare's KFM.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments