The acting Tánaiste and Labour leader Joan Burton is expected to announce her resignation as party leader when a new government is formed this weekend.
Ms Burton’s anticipated resignation will come after she previously indicated she intended to stay on as leader, however the acting Tánaiste’s determination to continue to lead the party has not been welcomed within the party. Sources close to the party revealed that Ms Burton is currently reconsidering her position after she lacked the support from her party colleagues to stay in charge.
A leading TD is quoted as saying: “She told us she would put the interests of the party first and make her decision clear after a government was formed.” The TD further explained it was the clear understanding of Labour colleagues that she would happily announce her resignation.
Meanwhile another TD said: “Reality has bitten.” “On the understanding that she is going, she is being allowed a grace period.”