Deputy Enda Kenny said he can take the title of Fine Gael party leader because he can provide the change that the Fine Gael electorate is seeking.
Deputy Kenny said he was approached by a number of people who had voted both for and against John Bruton at Wednesday’s debate of no confidence in the former leader.
"They saw me as someone who could unify the party," he said.
John Bruton lost the motion by 33 to 39. Michael Noonan and Jim Mitchell are also making a bid for the leadership, due to be held on Friday.