Gilmore may declare candidacy for Labour job today

There is speculation that Eamonn Gilmore may officially throw his hat into the ring for the leadership of the Labour Party today.

The Dun Laoghaire TD is the favourite to take over from Pat Rabbitte, who stepped down last week.

However, he is expected to face a contest for the job, even though his main rival, Brendan Howlin, ruled himself out of the running yesterday.

Meanwhile, Limerick East TD Jan O'Sullivan has declared her candidacy for the job of Labour deputy leader, which will also be up for grabs later this year.

Ms O'Sullivan, the party's spokesperson on education and science, says she is keen to participate in Labour's development.