New Irish PM in weeks after Enda Kenny retires as Fine Gael leader

Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny has confirmed he is going to step down as the leader of Fine Gael from midnight tonight.

His decision paves the way for Ireland to have a new head of government.

Mr Kenny will continue to perform his duties as Fine Gael leader in an acting capacity until a successor is appointed on 2 June.

"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," Mr Kenny said.

The veteran politician's resignation follows more than six years at the head of government.

Mr Kenny initially revealed his plans to stand down last year, when he said he would not lead Fine Gael into the next general election.

Sky's Ireland Correspondent, David Blevins, said: "Real challenges await his successor. Whoever takes over from Enda Kenny will be the person who has to protect Irish interests during the very delicate Brexit negotiations."

Fine Gael's chairman, Martin Heydon, described Mr Kenny as a "compassionate, pragmatic and inclusive" leader.

He added: "Having inherited a country and an economy that was decimated by mismanagement, Enda's strong leadership and ability to make hard decisions was recognised both at home and abroad and saw our international reputation restored and strengthened."

Mr Kenny's legacy includes leading Ireland out of a crippling recession, albeit with an agenda of austerity.

Other achievements during the 66-year-old's time in government include the legalisation of gay marriage.

However, voters have seen painful tax hikes under Mr Kenny's administration - with unprecedented levels of homelessness and a series of crises involving police corruption and negligence.

The Taoiseach delayed the transition to a new leader, allowing him to attend the annual St Patrick's Day celebrations in the US and meet President Donald Trump. He also travelled to Canada for talks with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Front runners to replace Mr Kenny as Fine Gael leader and subsequently become Prime Minister include social protection minister Leo Varadkar and housing minister Simon Coveney.

Justice minister Frances Fitzgerald and education minister Richard Bruton may also run for the leadership.