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Michael McDowell To Be New Leader Of The Progressive Democrats
Read more about: Progressive Democrats
Following Mary Harney’s resignation as Leader of junior coalition partner the Progressive Democrats, speculation has grown that the next leader would be either Justice Minister Michael McDowell, Liz O’Donnell or Tom Parlon. O’Donnell is probably best known for her role in the northern peace process, and Parlon claimed to have strong support on account of a large proportion of PD membership being based in his Dáil constituency.
However, reports are now emerging which suggest that O’Donnell and Parlon have pulled out of the race, leaving the way clear for McDowell to become leader. The three were involved in discussions yesterday, and it is understood they are on the verge of a deal that will avoid a split within the party.
Indications are that Liz O’Donnell has pulled out of the leadership race and that an agreement will be made over the next day (before the nominations for the leadership close tomorrow) between McDowell and Parlon. This is following stories yesterday which suggested that an agreement between McDowell and Parlon had failed to materialise. It is believed that McDowell will become leader in return for Parlon taking up McDowell’s current post as party president.
McDowell has taken a hard line in his role as Justice Minister in the current coalition government, and is known for his strong opinions on the provisional republican movement.
[First published on ElBlogador.com]
There’s one point of confusion. The RTE report says
It is understood that the appointment of a Tánaiste is by nomination of the Taoiseach, and does not require the Presidential seal or a vote of the Dáil.
But the wikipedia entry on the position says
The Tánaiste is appointed by the President of Ireland upon the nomination of the Taoiseach.
Not a direct contradiction. But it’s strange that it’s even brought up — is there a fear that a Dail vote could trigger a FF rebellion?
P.O.-
I think either way, no Dáil vote would be needed. Presumably once the President has approved of the Taoiseach, anyone he appoints to cabinet after that is de facto approved by the President through inherent powers to run the government as he sees fit which she delegates to him by virtue of his position.
According to Article 28: ” The Government shall consist of not less than seven and not more than fifteen members who shall be appointed by the President in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution.”