Cowen issues challenge to rebels

Irish Taoiseach Brian Cowen has challenged rebel ministers and backbenchers to vote him out as leader of his ruling Fianna Fail party.

After days of intense speculation over his political future, Mr Cowen claimed he has enough support to defeat a self-imposed secret ballot on his political future.

The Taoiseach insisted he was remaining in control of Fianna Fail "in the national interest".

Mr Cowen said he did not believe his party colleagues wanted a new leader.

"I do not believe it to be in the country's interests nor do I believe it to be the settled collective view of my colleagues in the parliamentary party," the Taoiseach said.

"Having one line of authority as a Taoiseach and a separate line of authority in political decision making as a leader of Fianna Fail is not in my view a good idea.

"It could lead to confusion and dilution of authority for the persons concerned."