Ireland: Defence minister Fianna Fail exodus ahead of election

Ireland's defence minister has said he will not stand in an upcoming parliamentary election, joining an exodus from the governing Fianna Fail party ahead of an expected record drubbing.

Tony Killeen is the third senior minister in as many months to decide not to run in the general election, expected to be held in late March, in which Fianna Fail's presence in the lower house could be halved, according to opinion polls.

The party, which has dominated the republic's politics for most of its 90 years of independence, has seen its popularity slump, blamed for a financial collapse that forced Ireland to accept an €85 billion (54bn) IMF/EU bailout.

Mr Killeen, 58, said yesterday his decision not to contest the election follows medical advice. He has received treatment for bowel cancer.

"I have informed the Taoiseach of my decision and I am deeply grateful to him for his backing, particularly during my illness and cancer treatment."

Justice minister Dermot Ahern and transport minister Noel Dempsey have already said they will not stand again.

A slew of Fianna Fail MPs have announced their intention to quit the lower chamber this year, including former prime minister Bertie Ahern and junior housing minister Michael Finneran.

Taoiseach Brian Cowen has agreed to call an election once a budget bill is passed, expected at the end of February.

Given a minimum three-week campaign, that would make an election likely in late March. Surveys show a coalition of Labour and Fine Gael is most likely to form a new government.