Joan Burton and Alan Kelly consider pact to retain Labour roles

Labour leader Joan Burton and her deputy leader Alan Kelly are considering a pact which would see the two of them remain at their posts.

It had been widely expected they would stand down after the disastrous general election result which saw the party return with just seven TDs, but it now appears Ms Burton and Mr Kelly are considering remaining on.

“Nothing has been decided but the idea cannot be discounted at this stage,” a party source told the Irish Examiner. Ms Burton has said she will not reveal her intentions until a government is formed. Members of her inner team have spoken about wanting to see her depart her role with dignity.