In a packed Dail chamber, Brian Cowen was elected Taoiseach of Ireland after a vote to choose between him, Enda Kenny and Eamon Gilmore. The vote was won by 88 to 76.

He was nominated by Bertie Ahern himself however it only became quite raucous as Mary Harney seconded Cowen’s nomination and defended the government’s record - more particularly her own record - on Health.

Moment of the day has to be Jackie Healy-Rae inviting Brian Cowen to visit South Kerry with him “to fix potholes”. “The weather is getting very hot and I am under pressure”.

Hurrah, another dose of Noel Whelan on RTE. Wonderful.

Next up is the Cabinet around 6 pm, idle speculation and spin all welcome - would also love some photos of the Offaly invasion to the usual address.