Flanagan throws weight behind Noonan
Fine Gael Laois/Offaly TD Charlie Flanagan has given his support to Michael Noonan's party leadership bid, with Jim Mitchell as his deputy.
He said that, despite giving the matter full and serious consideration, he had decided not to seek the leadership himself at this stage.
"It is important that the party focus on who will provide the most effective leadership for Fine Gael with a general election fast approaching.
The party will need a leader with sound judgement, sharp political skills and excellent organisational capacity. I believe Michael Noonan is the best choice to lead our party at this critical time in the party's history," he said.
