New leader: Potential candidates for the leadership of the Progressive Democrats have all refused to indicate whether they will be putting their names forward.
Minister for Justice Michael McDowell, seen by many as the front-runner in the race, declined to state his intentions. "I am reflecting on the situation today."
PD chief whip Liz O'Donnell said "not today" when approached by journalists. Later, on Newstalk 106, she refused again to say what her intentions were but said it had been her preference that Ms Harney would remain as party leader until after the general election.
Minister of State at the Department of Finance Tom Parlon also refused to indicate his intention, stating that it was "Mary's day".
PD Minister of State at the Department of Health Tim O'Malley said "no comment" when approached by journalists.
The Tánaiste, at her press conference, mentioned Mr McDowell, Ms O'Donnell, Mr O'Malley and Mr Parlon as potential leaders.
Dún Laoghaire TD Fiona O'Malley said last night that she hoped that there would be a consensus candidate and that there would be no need for an election.
Succession race: possible contenders
Liz O'Donnell
Age: 50. CV: Solicitor who has not practised since the 1980s. Political experience: First elected to the Dáil in 1992, she was Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs. She stepped down from this position after the 2002 general election for family reasons. Strengths: Identified with the liberal wing of the party. Generally moderate outlook could help with transfers. Weaknesses: Lack of high profile nationally since 2002.
Tom Parlon
Age 53. CV: A farmer from Coolderry, Co Offaly, he is a former president of the Irish Farmers' Association. Political experience: Laois Offaly TD and Minister of State with responsibility for the Office of Public Works since 2002. Strengths: Well positioned to mount strong leadership campaign among the general party membership, councillors, and the PDs' national executive. Weaknesses: Lacks strong support within the parliamentary party.
Michael McDowell
Age: 55. CV: One of the best-known barristers of his generation in the Four Courts. Attorney general between 1999 and 2002. Political experience: Left Fine Gael for the PDs when they were founded in 1985. Elected for Dublin South East in 1987, lost the seat in 1989, regained it in 1992 but lost it again in 1997. Left active politics then, but rejoined in 2002 when he was appointed party president and topped the poll in Dublin South East in 2002. Has been Minister for Justice since. Strengths: Performance as Minister for Justice has given him high profile. Weaknesses: Some in the party see him as a divisive figure, conjuring up a negative image for some voters.