10/06/2009

Cowen Will 'Modernise' Fianna Fail

Taoiseach Brian Cowen has said Fianna Fáil has to modernise in order to win the next general election.

During a lengthy meeting on Tuesday night, contributions from across the party were heard, with Mr Cowen claiming the party must modernise to produce an organisation that is "fit for purpose".

A greater priority would be placed on campaigning, leading to a radical overhaul, said Chief Whip Pat Carey, who added Fianna Fáil was "down but not out".

Over 90 TDs and senators attended the four-and-a-half hour post mortem that heard some three dozen speakers.

Brian Cowen opened the meeting saying the party would now begin a three-year process of reorganisation ahead of the next general election.

Some speakers raised the question of a reshuffle, the likely-hood of which had been of rife speculation since the election results last week, which placed the currently governing party, Fianna Fail, in third place in the local election.

However, the meeting centred on the shortcomings in party organisation.

Despite speculation of a back bench revolt and anonymous calls for Mr Cowen to stand down there was no open criticism of the leadership.

(DW/JM)

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