Potential successor to Kenny fails to rule out a Fine Gael leadership contest finishing by Easter

Enda Kenny could remain on as Taoiseach until mid-April after a potential successor to him failed to rule out a Fine Gael leadership contest finishing by Easter.

Housing Minister Simon Coveney also said he hoped no disagreements would break out in Fine Gael if Mr Kenny did not outline specifics about stepping down at a party meeting tonight.

Chances of a heave diminished after party TD Pat Deering withdrew a threat to lodge a motion of no confidence against Mr Kenny — as long as he quits after St Patrick’s Day.