Fine Gael set to have new leader by Easter

Fine Gael ministers believe they will have a new leader by Easter after Taoiseach Enda Kenny said he will “conclusively” address his future after he returns from his White House visit for St Patrick’s Day.

The prediction was made by a number of well-placed figures after Mr Kenny ensured any leadership contest was put on hold for at least a month by outmaneuvering his fiercest critics.

In an eight-minute address to Fine Gael’s weekly parliamentary party meeting, Mr Kenny told a crowded room he will “conclusively” address his future after he returns from the US.