Dukes to support Noonan campaign
Sunday, 4 February 2001 23:01
The Former Fine Gael leader Alan Dukes has announced he will be supporting Michael Noonan in the party's leadership contest. With less than 24 hours to the deadline for nominations, the announcement comes as a significant boost in support for the Limerick East deputy.
Previously, there has been widespread speculation that both the party chief whip Charlie Flanagan and the former leader Alan Dukes would enter the race. Yesterday, however, Deputy Flanagan said that he would back Michael Noonan. Tonight Noonan received another significant boost when Deputy Dukes announced his support for his campaign. Deputy Dukes believes that under Michael Noonan's leadership the party would once again be a major leading political force and the cornerstone of the next government.
According to a poll in today's Sunday Independent, Jim Mitchell is leading his competitors in terms of public support but Michael Noonan is favoured by party supporters. The poll was carried out shortly after Mayo deputy Enda Kenny entered the race.
