Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny has responded to media speculation about his future.

In a statement the Fine Gael Party says Enda Kenny would lead it into the next General Election – and would win it.

It goes on to say that Enda Kenny nor the party was going to be distracted by what it describes as a ‘panicked over-reaction’ by some – to one opinion poll.

And the statement says Enda Kenny is focused 100% on the motion of confidence in Brian Cowen as Taoiseach on Tuesday.

Independent Senator Shane Ross says competency is more important in a leader than charisma.