Labour rebel Nulty breaks ties with party

A leading Labour rebel has broken all ties with the party after expressing despair with its leadership.

Dublin West TD Patrick Nulty, who quit the parliamentary party shortly after winning a by-election in 2011, has now resigned from the party altogether over education cuts.

“The leadership of the party, and in particular the cabinet ministers who have sacrificed core social democratic demands for their own personal political ambitions, have brought the political system into disrepute.

“I no longer believe that membership of the party is of any assistance in advancing the political ideas which form the cornerstone of my value system.

“These ideas are social justice, equality and the creation of full employment in our society,” Mr Nulty said.

Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore shrugged off the news saying that it came as no surprise as Mr Nulty had “effectively resigned” some time ago.

Mr Nulty ruled out joining United Left Alliance.