By Juno McEnroe, Political Correspondent
Enda Kenny has confirmed that he would remain as Taoiseach for a full term if Fine Gael is returned to government, thereby freezing the leadership hopes of his ministers.
Speaking to reporters at his party's ard fheis in Dublin's City West today, Mr Kenny also dismissed suggestions that Fine Gael had held secret talks with Independents about any possible coalition government.
He also said that he would not be announcing the long-awaited date for the general election this evening during his speech.
Asked by the Irish Examiner whether it was his intention to serve a full term if his party was returned, Mr Kenny said it was.
He had previously suggested last year that he may not finish out a second term as Taoiseach, if voters put Fine Gael back in power.
But his direct and unambiguous answer that he intends to remain as the head of Fine Gael for at least another five years will dampen the hopes of several senior ministers said to be interested in the leadership.
These include Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney, Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald as well as Health Minister Leo Varadakar.
Mr Kenny also denied reports that Fine Gael has held behind-closed door negotiations with Independent TDs about making up the numbers for a coalition after the election.
However, Mr Kenny, when asked, would not rule out any possible negotiations with Tipperary TD Michael Lowry (a former Fine Gael minister), who was previously heavily criticised by the Moriarty inquiry.
Mr Kenny also said the date of general election, believed by many to be February 26, was "immaterial" and what mattered was who the electorate decided to vote for.