Mitchell expected to pull out of race
There is growing speculation this evening that Deputy Jim Mitchell will pull out of the Fine Gael leadership battle.
Mr Mitchell said a decision would be made either late tonight or first thing in the morning.
"I am still a candidate as of tonight because it is a joint campaign for change. We will review our strategy tonight."
A vote to decide John Bruton's replacement takes place in the morning and, if Mitchell decides not to run, Michael Noonan will almost be a certainty for the post.
