Alan Kelly expects to be in pole position in Labour leadership race

Labour deputy party leader Alan Kelly has strongly hinted that he expects to be in a position to fight for the leadership — despite many figures backing Brendan Howlin for the role.

It is expected a decision will emerge early this week on whether there will in fact be a contest for someone to take over from Joan Burton or whether one figure will be backed.

Mr Howlin yesterday signalled that he wants the parliamentary party to decide, while Mr Kelly says that the thousands of members in the party should ultimately choose. If there is a contest and more than one person runs, a conference will be called and all members will have a vote. However, if just one person runs, no such vote takes place.