Boyle to run for Green chairman

Senator Dan Boyle has put himself forward for chairman of the Green Party.

Mr Boyle said he was making the move in response to "calls from many party members" following the vacancy left by John Gormley who became Minister for the Environment.

The senator played a central role in negotiations that lead to the formation of a coalition government with Fianna Fáil after the May election. He lost his seat in Cork South Central but was appointed to the Seanad by the Taoiseach last month.

The Green Party's National Council will meet this weekend to discuss how the position of chair will be filled.

"I am anticipating that others in the party will also want to put themselves forward for consideration," Senator Boyle said.

"It is only right that the party's members should be able to have such a choice. As of today I will be visiting as many local groups around the country as possible until that choice is made."