Cowen, Brian (1960– )

Irish politician, Taoiseach (prime minister) from 2008. A member of the lower house of Ireland's parliament from the age of 24, representing the Republican centrist Fianna Fáil, he accumulated a wealth of ministerial experience before becoming Taoiseach in May 2008. He served under his close ally Albert Reynolds as labour minister (1992–93); energy minister (1993); and transport, energy, and communications ministers (1993–94), and built up a reputation as a tough debater and forthright politician. When Fianna Fáil returned to power in 1997, under the leadership of Bertie Ahern, Cowen became health and children minister (1997–2000), followed by foreign affairs minister (2000–04), finance minister (2004–08), and party deputy leader (from 2002). As foreign minister, he played an important role in the Northern Ireland peace process. When Ahern retired as party leader in April 2008, Cowen was the sole nominee for the post. He inherited an economy which was slowing down after a long period of rapid growth.

Born in Tullamore, County Offaly, into a rural middle-class background, his family were long-time supporters of Fianna Fáil and his father was a member of the Irish parliament. He studied law at University College, Dublin, and qualified as a solicitor. On the sudden death of his father in 1984, he was elected to his late father's parliamentary constituency of Laois-Offally, and also to his late father's seat on the Offally County Council.