Howlin, Gilmore expected to run for Labour job

The race to succeed Ruairí Quinn as Labour leader begins next week following Quinn’s announcement today that he intends to step down in October.

While no Labour TD has yet expressed their intent to run for the position, it is expected that deputy leader, Brendan Howlin, and Dun Laoghaire TD, Eamon Gilmore, will come forward.

Nominations for the Labour leadership open on Wednesday next.

Labour TDs can put their own or colleagues names forward with nominations closing on September 18.

If just one person is nominated, he or she will be deemed elected at the close of nominations.

However, if more than one candidate emerges a poll will take place among party members.

The 3,500 people eligible will vote by post and a successor should be announced by the end of October, when Quinn’s term in office comes to an end.