Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
ENDA THE ROAD
Kenny steps down as Fine Gael chief after 15 years at the helm
TAOISEACH Enda Kenny stepped down as leader of Fine Gael at midnight after 15 years in the top post.
After months of speculation, he told party colleagues of his intentions which immediately led potential successors to jockey for position. Indicating he will stay on as premier until a new leader is in place, an emotional Mr Kenny, 66, said it had been a “huge honour and privilege” to have led Fine Gael. He added: “Last year I indicated I would not lead the Fine Gael party into the next General Election. I have decided to implement that decision today. “Therefore I will retire as leader of Fine Gael effective from midnight. I will continue to carry out my duties as party leader in an acting capacity until my successor is elected through the Fine Gael Leadership election process. “I have asked that the Fine Gael executive council expedite this process and have it concluded by close of business on Friday June 2.” Social protection Minister Leo Varadkar, the favourite to succeed him, described Mr Kenny as “an extraordinary Taoiseach and Fine Gael’s most successful leader ever”. He said: “He brought us from the edge of extinction to the largest party in the State. He brought Ireland from the brink of bankruptcy back onto the road to prosperity.” Simon Coveney, the man who will push Varadkar the hardest for the vacancy, said: “When Enda took over the leadership we were broken and demoralised. “With his vision, determination, positivity and relentless workrate he led our party back from defeat and to sustained electoral success.” Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams hit out at the departing Taoiseach however, saying he “came in in crisis, he’s leaving in crisis”. He added: “I also want to acknowledge that from his perspective, he did his best. From the Sinn Fein perspective it wasn’t good enough.” SDLP leader Colum Eastwood tweeted: “Congratulations @Endakennytd on decades of service.” Alliance Party chief Naomi Long said: “He will be remembered for showing a true commitment to the peace process, as well as helping seek solutions to several crises. I wish him well.”