Fine Gael leadership nominations to close shortly
Final nominations in the Fine Gael leadership battle are due at 6pm but it is expected to be a four horse race between Jim Mitchell, Michael Noonan, Enda Kenny and Bernard Allen.
The prospect of a fifth candidate faded yesterday when Alan Dukes gave Michael Noonan a timely boost in his bid for the leadership by saying he is backing him.
All four candidates have said they want to personally discuss matters with each of the 72 members of the Fine Gael parliamentary party before they vote on Friday for a new leader.
