Irish deputy premier Brian Cowen is set to succeed outgoing Prime Minister Bertie Ahern next month, officials revealed on Saturday.
Cowen, who is also finance minister, was the only contender for leadership of the ruling Fianna Fail party when nominations closed, chief whip Tom Kitt confirmed.
“I am deeply honoured by the confidence shown in me by the members of the Parliamentary Party,” Cowen, 48, said in reaction.
“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.”
He has already received the backing of all the senior Fianna Fail ministers in the coalition government.
Unless the three-party alliance — which is also supported by a number of independent lawmakers — breaks down, Cowen will not face a general election until mid-2012.
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