The Taoiseach and Finene Gael leader Enda Kenny has said he that expects to lead the Fine Gael party into the next general election.
Mr Kenny made his comments whilst he was speaking at the North-South Ministerial Council, meeting Mr Kenny said he was absolutely happy he will be the Fine Gael leader who will lead the party into the next election and into government in 2016.
It is understood that Mr Kenny,and the Tánaiste Joan Burton along with other ministers were meeting their Northern counterparts today. The meeting was also attended by Northern Ireland First Minister Peter Robinson and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness.
Also in attendance are Minister for Foreign Affairs Charlie Flanagan and the Minister for State Sean Sherlock. It is officially the 19th meeting of the NSMC, which was established as part of the Good Friday Agreement.
Sources suggest the meeting was planned to discuss financial and economic matters and the ongoing all-party political talks at Stormont.