North's First Minister Peter Robinson to step down

The North's First Minister Peter Robinson is to step down within weeks.

The Belfast Telegraph has said he will also resign as leader of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP).

The decision comes after an agreement has been reached in Northern Ireland after weeks of talks.

The 66 year old had a heart attack in May.

The DUP will hold its annual conference this weekend.

No successor has been appointed yet, but Arlene Foster and Nigel Dodds have been identified as front runners.

The Taoiseach has paid tribute to Mr Robinson.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny has said that it was an expected announcement after Robinson's heart attack in May.

“I think this is an announcement that has been expected for some time.

“Peter is conscious of his health and he has pointed out to the Tanaiste and myself the difficulties and pressures of these kinds of jobs and the extent of the shortage of sleep he has had for a long time, I wish him well.”