A new Fine Gael leader will be in place by June 2 after Enda Kenny formally announced his intention to step down.
The Taoiseach has told a meeting of party TDs and senators that he will continue to carry out his duties in an “acting capacity” until a successor is elected.
It clears the way for Simon Coveney and Leo Varadkar to launch their campaigns to take over the party and become Taoiseach.
Donegal Deputy Joe McHugh has not yet indicated which way he will vote in the leadership battle or who is his preferred option for leader.
A spokesman for Minister McHugh said he was at Leinster House but was in meetings.
In a statement Mr Kenny paid special tribute to his wife Fionnuala, children and siblings “for their understanding of my work, and indeed for accepting the many intrusions of politics into family life in the interest of building our country”.
After the Fine Gael leadership contest Mr Kenny will remain in place as Taoiseach for a “brief but appropriate period”.
This will allow his successor to meet with Fianna Fáil and the Independent members of government before a Dáil vote to become leader of the country.
“I would like to stress the huge honour and privilege that it has been for me to lead our party for the past 15 years, in opposition and into Government on two successive occasions.
“I thank all our members, past and present for that privilege.
“I thank all my loyal constituents and supports in Mayo for their unstinting loyalty since 1975, and for their support for my family previously in providing unbroken service to the County in Dáil Eireann since 1954,” Mr Kenny said.
Minister for Social Protection Leo Varadkar and Housing Minister Simon Coveney are the early frontrunners for the job. However Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald has not yet ruled herself out of contention, and there is speculation that Richard Bruton may run.
Mr Kenny’s announcement brings to an end months of speculation about his departure, prompted by his own admission that he would not lead Fine Gael into the next general election.
Tags: