Brian Cowen says sorry for radio performance

Taoiseach Brian Cowen admitted his voice sounded hoarse

Taoiseach Brian Cowen apologised last night for his performance on a radio interview which sparked a row over his leadership.

He said he had not meant to disrespect the people of Ireland in the controversial morning broadcast,

just hours after enjoying a late-night gathering in a hotel bar.

But he again insisted claims by political opponents that he “sounded halfway between drunk and hungover” were untrue.

Referring to a hoarseness in his voice, Mr Cowen admitted the interview with RTE yesterday from his Fianna Fail party's “think-in” in Galway was not his best performance. But he said he had fully prepared for it and did not take his public duties lightly.

“I would like to make it clear that there was no intention of any disrespect to the country or the people of Ireland,” he said.