Labour to unveil Gilmore as new leader

Eamon Gilmore will be officially unveiled today as the new Labour leader.

The Dun Laoghaire TD will be declared elected at the party’s headquarters after nominations close.

The Co Galway native is expected to make a brief victory speech setting out his priorities for his six-year term at the helm.

Mr Gilmore has already vowed to build on the work of his predecessor Pat Rabbitte to reconnect with potential Labour voters in every community.

He has also indicated that he wants the party to shun alliances and fight the next general election on its own.

Frontbench spokespersons Joan Burton and Jan O’Sullivan are expected to be the only contenders for the deputy leader post when nominations close at noon.