GEMMA HUSSEY, the former Fine Gael minister, has called for Enda Kenny’s resignation as party leader.
The former minister for education yesterday used her Twitter account to appeal for Mr Kenny’s departure.
“From Bratislava – will no one tell Enda (a good and decent man) to go quietly and gracefully? A new energetic team needed (keep Ml Noonan),” she said.
Speaking to The Irish Timesfrom Bratislava, where she was addressing a conference, Ms Hussey confirmed she had posted the tweet and said she was anticipating criticism for having done so.
“I’m not in touch with anybody in the party – I just felt it was something that had to be said. I’m aware I will be criticised, but I just felt it had to be said,” Ms Hussey said.
Later, Ms Hussey told RTÉ Radio One's Drivetimeprogramme that she knew, liked and respected Mr Kenny but believed people did not have confidence in him and did not seem to be able to relate to him. She insisted she was motivated by concern for the country and a wish to see a strong, alternative leader.
Ms Hussey said she was “speaking as a citizen” who was also a “bit of political junkie”. On her Twitter homepage, Ms Hussey describes herself as: “Former Govt Minister (Fine Gael); Feminist; Author; Commentator; Grandmother of 7.”
A Fine Gael spokesman said: “A variety of frontbench spokespeople have been out this week supporting Enda and the party’s now focused on the general election”. Asked about Ms Hussey’s tweet, Fine Gael TD Brian Hayes said: “I don’t follow any of the tweets. I don’t tweet myself and I don’t look at anyone else’s tweets – I haven’t the time,” he said.
The Irish Times/Ipsos MRBI poll results published on Thursday found a 3 per cent drop in Fine Gael support to 24 per cent. Labour consolidated its position as the most popular party in the State with 33 per cent, up four points.
