Photo dated on June 26, 2004 shows Irish Foreign Affairs Minister Brian Cowen gestures to the media at Shannon's Airport. Irish deputy premier Brian Cowen was set to succeed outgoing Prime Minister Bertie Ahern next month, officials revealed on April 5, 2008. Cowen, who is also finance minister, was the only contender for leadership of the ruling Fianna Fail party when nominations closed, chief whip Tom Kitt confirmed. Getty Images logo Getty Images 92 months ago

Photo dated on June 26, 2004 shows Irish Foreign Affairs Minister Brian Cowen gestures to the media at Shannon's Airport. Irish deputy premier Brian Cowen was set to succeed outgoing Prime Minister Bertie Ahern next month, officials revealed on April 5, 2008. Cowen, who is also finance minister, was the only contender for leadership of the ruling Fianna Fail party when nominations closed, chief whip Tom Kitt confirmed.