TAOISEACH ENDA KENNY is to retire as Fine Gael leader, and step down as head of government.
Kenny announced his plans at a meeting of the Fine Gael parliamentary party at Leinster House this afternoon, with his retirement effective from midnight tonight.
Kenny tweeted a statement as that meeting began, confirming his plans, ahead of the news being leaked in other ways.
A complex leadership contest now gets underway, the result of which will be announced on June 2nd.
By that time the Dáil will have suspended until Tuesday June the 13th, which is the likely date for Kenny's successor to become Taoiseach and appoint a new cabinet.
The 66-year-old Kenny, who recently became Fine Gael's longest-serving head of government, will remain in the role until then.
Our political correspondent Gavan Reilly reported on The Last Word with Matt Cooper:
Kenny is the longest serving TD in Leinster House he has been a member of Dail Eireann since 1975.
In his statement he the people of Mayo for their support. He says its has been a "huge honour and privilege to lead the party for the past 15 years, in opposition and into Government on two successive occasions".
— Enda Kenny (@EndaKennyTD) May 17, 2017
Social Protection Minister Leo Varadkar is seen as one of the frontrunners to take over from Mr Kenny as leader of FG.
In a statement he says he has learned a lot from Enda and his legacy will be far-reaching.
"Above all, he is a kind and decent man, always ready with an encouraging word or a solid piece of advice. He is devoted to family, party and country.
"I hope sincerely that his expertise will continue to be available to us. But I know that the party, and the country, will always remember him and will always be grateful."
Reaction from Brendan Howlin Leader of the Labour Party:
.@EndaKennyTD will be remembered as Taoiseach of the Government that brought the country back from the brink. Did his country much service https://t.co/HRDzNeQVGh
— Brendan Howlin (@BrendanHowlin) May 17, 2017
