Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has announced that he will stand down as Taoiseach and Fine Gael leader.
Mr Varadkar made the announcement in a press conferred at 12pm outside Government Buildings.
He has served as leader of the Fine Gael party since 2017
Speaking outside Government buildings, he said a successor will be found and named in advance of the Ard Fheis On April 16th.
This will allow the incoming Taoiseach two full months in the role before the Local and European elections in June.
It is expected that successors may be chosen from a list of possible candidates including SimonCoveney, Paschal Donohoe, Simon Harris and Helen McEntee.
Fine Gael ministers are understood to be currently meeting privately – without Mr Varadkar.
Mr. Varadkar outlined his reasons for leaving, acknowledging them to be both personal and political.
He stated that after much soul-searching, he believes a new Taoiseach will be best placed to bring Fine Gael forward into the future.
Adding, 'politicians are human beings too,' he acknowledged that there comes a time when politicans must know the time to stand down and to step aside.
Visibly emotional throughout his speech, he said he has been 'proud to serve' his country and his party.
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