Rabitte resigns as leader of Labour Party

Pat Rabbitte is standing down as leader of the Labour Party, it was confirmed this afternoon.

It follows Labour's disappointing showing in May's general election.

Pat Rabbitte said today he took full responsibility for the failure to win more seats, and the failure to effect a change of government.

Mr Rabbitte - who is stepping down with immediate effect - said the beginning of a new Dáil was an opportune time to elect a new leader.

Mr Rabbitte became party leader in 2002 when he took over from Ruairi Quinn, and speculation will now centre on his likely successor.

Its expected the battle to take over will be between current deputy leader Liz McManus and senior front benchers Brendan Howlin and Eamon Gilmore.

Pat Rabitte says he is prepared to serve as a Minister in future if he is asked to.