FINE GAEL TDs have strongly backed Enda Kenny following an opinion poll which showed Richard Bruton as the preferred choice of party leader among voters.
A survey of TDs yesterday indicated solid support for Mr Kenny and no desire to change leaders. They spoke of Mr Bruton as potentially an outstanding minister for finance.
When asked, in Saturday's Irish Times/TNS mrbi poll, which of the two Fine Gael senior figures would be a better leader in this economic downturn, 46 per cent opted for Mr Bruton, while 28 per cent said Mr Kenny. Some 26 per cent had no opinion.
Opinion was evenly split among Fine Gael voters, with 46 per cent for each man.
Party justice spokesman and Laois-Offaly TD Charlie Flanagan said the poll was "fantasy politics". at its best.
"There is the same chance of a change in leadership in Fine Gael as there is of Bertie Ahern coming back as Fianna Fáil leader or the Progressive Democrats not winding up."
Mr Flanagan said there was no question of the leadership becoming an issue within Fine Gael.
"Enda Kenny has a strong team around him, whereas Brian Cowen has a weak team. Richard Bruton is a strong player, and would be an excellent minister for finance."
Lucinda Creighton (Dublin South-East) said Fine Gael was showing up strongly in polls.
"I am very happy with Enda Kenny and his leadership. There is no question of a leadership contest. It is not going to arise for us."
Frank Feighan (Roscommon-South-Leitrim) said: "Enda Kenny is leader, and there is no talk of a change. His next challenge is the European and local elections. He united the party and delivered in the general election."
James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath) said Mr Kenny was his first choice as leader. "I know that Richard Bruton would make a wonderful minister for finance, but Enda Kenny has my full support as leader."
Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick East) said Mr Kenny had done a very good job for the party and continues to do so. "We have the next minister for finance in Richard Bruton. We are doing very well as a party. We are lucky to have such a tremendous asset as Richard working beside the leader."
