Gilmore set to declare Labour candidacy this week

Eamon Gilmore is reportedly set to formally put his hat in the ring for leadership of the Labour Party in the coming few days.

Mr Gilmore is regarded as the favourite to succeed Pat Rabbitte, but he is expected to face a challenge from at least one other Labour TD.

Reports this morning say he is currently arranging the launch of his campaign and will be pushing for an independent electoral strategy and a return to Labour's core values.

Elsewhere, Brendan Howlin reportedly has the support of key party figures like Ruairí Quinn and Brian O'Shea, but has yet to make up his mind on whether to see the top job.

Liz McManus, Joan Burton and Tommy Broughan are also likely candidates, but pundits believe the race will boil down to a contest between Mr Gilmore and Mr Howlin.