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STATEMENT BY MICHEÁL MARTIN - JAN 18th 2011
Last updated on 18 Jan, 2011
Summary:
Over recent days we have had an intense discussion about the future of Fianna Fáil and whether we are going to campaign energetically in the coming general election.
As I said on Sunday, I was determined that we would go through this process in a different way from normal leadership votes. I was not interested in tearing anyone down and I believe we have proven that we can disagree without being destructive. We have had a mature and positive debate leading to a clear resolution.
I fully respect the decision of my colleagues and I am very encouraged by the general spirit of the conversations. There is no doubt that we now have a renewed sense of energy and commitment to bringing our message to the people. We go into this election as a united party behind our leader.
The Taoiseach continues to have my full support as head of government and I will actively support him as our party leader during the coming campaign. I look forward to welcoming him to Cork South Central in the weeks ahead.
During our discussions at the weekend myself and the Taoiseach agreed that my immediate resignation might have a destabilising impact on the government. However I was clear that I would insist on my resignation if my views did not prevail in the vote.
I have therefore tendered my resignation as Minister for Foreign Affairs. It has been an honour to serve as Minister holding portfolios in Education, Health, Enterprise, Trade and Employment and Foreign Affairs and to have worked with such dedicated public servants. Ireland has a public service of the highest international standards of which it should be proud.