Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny is playing down today's opinion poll showing a surge in support for the Government and Fianna Fail.
The poll puts support for Fianna Fail up eight points to 42%, while Fine Gael's support is down five points to 26%.
Mr Kenny, however, said today that the figures would be of little consequence to those suffering due to problems in the health service and the housing slowdown.
He also said Mr Cowen's rein would be no different to that of Bertie Ahern's.
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