Taoiseach Brian Cowen has voiced support for John Bruton's candidacy for the post of president of the EU Council.
The former taoiseach and Fine Gael leader has written to the ambassadors of all 27 EU countries to the United States to announce his interest in the post.
Speaking at an EU summit in Brussels this evening, Mr Cowen, who previously stated his support for British candidate, former prime minister Tony Blair, said: "As an Irish person, as head of the Irish government, I would welcome if John Bruton could be there and get the post if possible."
Mr Cowen said that if Mr Bruton, who is finishing his five-year term as EU ambassador to Washington, was in the running "we'll certainly not be found wanting for support."
Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair and Luxembourg premier Jean-Claude Juncker have been mentioned as among the leading candidates for the job.